US11692328B2 - Compact utility loader - Google Patents

Abstract

A compact utility loader compact utility loader comprising a frame including a lower portion and an upper portion. A width of the lower portion is smaller than a width of the upper portion. The compact utility loader additionally comprises a first track and a second track, with each track being positioned on a side of the frame. Each of the tracks has a width of at least 7.5 inches, and the compact utility loader has an overall width of no more than 36 inches.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present non-provisional patent application claims priority benefit to prior-filed U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/879,796, filed on Jul. 29, 2019, and entitled “COMPACT UTILITY LOADER”; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/984,476, filed on Mar. 3, 2020, and entitled “COMPACT UTILITY LOADER.” The entirety of both above-identified prior-filed provisional patent applications is hereby incorporated by reference into the present non-provisional patent application.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention are generally directed to utility loaders. More particularly, embodiments of the present invention are directed to compact utility loaders that can carry and operate a wide range of attachments while maintaining a reduced operating footprint.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There are many utility loaders on the market today. Such utility loaders are generally used as hydraulic tool carriers configured to operate a variety of hydraulically-driven tools or attachments. Common attachments include augers, trenchers, grapples, etc. Other non-hydraulic attachments may also be carried by utility loaders, such as buckets, rakes, etc.

Unfortunately, currently-available utility loaders are commonly manufactured in large sizes (e.g., having large widths and lengths), which can make the loaders difficult to maneuver and operate. There are some versions of compact utility loaders that are formed with reduced widths and/or lengths; however, such compact utility loaders are generally manufactured with narrow tracks, which reduces maneuverability and can be problematic for load distribution onto the ground. For instance, the use of narrow tracks on utility loaders can cause ruts to be formed in soft ground. As such, there is a need for a compact utility loader having a small, reduced width but that includes large, oversized tracks, so as to provide for improved maneuverability and load distribution. It would also be beneficial to provide compact utility loaders that include improved loader arm configurations and enhanced operator functionalities to improve the operational capabilities of the loader.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a compact utility loader comprising a frame including a lower portion and an upper portion. A width of the lower portion is smaller than a width of the upper portion. The compact utility loader additionally comprises a first track and a second track, with each track being positioned on a side of the frame. Each of the tracks has a width of at least “7.5” inches, and the compact utility loader has an overall width of no more than “36” inches.

Additional embodiments of the present invention include a compact utility loader comprising a frame, an engine, a pair of loader arms, and an attachment secured to ends of the loader arms. The compact utility loader additionally includes a first track or wheel and a second track or wheel positioned on either side of the frame. The compact utility loader additionally comprises a control interface including a graphic display configured to present operational information to an operator. The graphic display is configured to present a login screen prompting the operator for a passcode. The engine is prevented from being started until a valid passcode is entered via the control interface.

Additionally, embodiments of the present invention include a compact utility loader comprising a frame, a first track and a second track positioned on either side of the frame, and a pair of loader arms. The loader arms are configured to couple with an attachment via a hitch plate and a hitch pin. The compact utility loader is configured such that as the loader arms are raised and lowered, the hitch pin follows a path approximately defined by a curve ƒ(x)=4.641e^0.34x. The value “x” represents a horizontal direction and the function ƒ(x) represents a vertical direction.

Additionally, embodiments of the present invention include a compact utility loader comprising a frame and a loader arm configured in a vertical-lift configuration. The compact utility loader additionally comprises a link pivotably secured to the loader arm and to the frame, and an actuator pivotably secured to the loader arm and to the frame. The compact utility loader further comprises a track assembly configured to maintain the loader arm in direct attachment to the frame.

Additionally, embodiments of the present invention include a compact utility loader comprising a frame, and a pair of loader arms supported by the frame. The frame includes a right side, a left side, and a bottom side extending between the right side and the left side. The compact utility loader additionally includes an engine mount secured to the bottom side of the frame and spaced apart from each of the left side and the right side of the frame. The compact utility loader further comprises an engine supported on the engine mount.

Additionally, embodiments of the present invention include a compact utility loader comprising a frame, and a loader arm configured to support an attachment. The compact utility loader additionally comprises a first link pivotably secured to the frame, a second link pivotably secured to the frame, and an actuator configured to raise and lower the loader arm. The actuator is not simultaneously secured to both the frame and the loader arm.

Additional embodiments of the present invention include a compact utility loader comprising a frame, an engine, a pair of loader arms, and an attachment secured to ends of the loader arms. The compact utility loader additionally includes a first track or wheel and a second track or wheel positioned on either side of the frame. The compact utility loader additionally comprises a control interface including a keyless start mechanism configured to start said engine without requiring a physical key.

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following detailed description of the embodiments and the accompanying drawing figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Embodiments of the present invention are described herein with reference to the following drawing figures, wherein:

FIG.1 is a front perspective view of a compact utility loader according to embodiments of the present invention;

FIG.2 is a rear perspective view of the compact utility loader fromFIG.1;

FIG.3 is a front elevation view of the compact utility loader fromFIGS.1 and2;

FIG.4 is a rear elevation view of the compact utility loader fromFIGS.1-3;

FIG.5 is a top plan view of the compact utility loader fromFIGS.1-4;

FIG.6 is another front perspective view of the compact utility loader fromFIGS.1-5, with a hood being raised to show internal components of the compact utility loader;

FIG.7 is a cross-section of the compact utility loader taken along the line7-7 fromFIG.5;

FIG.8 is a perspective view of the cross-section fromFIG.7;

FIG.9 is a top perspective view of a frame and certain internal components, such as an engine, a flywheel, and a pump, of the compact utility loader fromFIGS.1-6;

FIG.10 is a schematic illustration of a powertrain of the compact utility loader fromFIGS.1-6;

FIG.11 is a side perspective view of the compact utility loader fromFIGS.1-6, particularly illustrating internal components of the compact utility loader;

FIG.12 is a cross-section of the compact utility loader taken along the line12-12 fromFIG.11;

FIG.13 is a cross-section of the compact utility loader taken along the line13-13 fromFIG.11;

FIG.14ais another perspective view of the compact utility loader fromFIGS.1-6, particularly illustrating an attachment in the form of a bucket being separated from loader arms of the compact utility loader;

FIG.14bis another perspective view of the compact utility loader fromFIGS.1-6, particularly illustrating the loader arms raising an attachment in the form of a bucket;

FIG.15ais side elevation view of the compact utility loader fromFIG.14b, particularly illustrating a path traveled by the loader arms when shifting between a lowered position and a raised position;

FIG.15bis another side elevation view of the compact utility loader fromFIG.14b, particularly illustrating a continuing path traveled by the loader arms when shifting between a lowered position and a raised position;

FIG.16 is a graphical representation plotted to illustrate a path traveled by loader arms from the compact utility loader fromFIGS.1-6 when shifting between a lowered position and a raised position;

FIG.17ais a partial perspective view of the compact utility loader fromFIGS.1-6, magnified to illustrate a track assembly directly connecting a loader arm to a frame of the compact utility loader;

FIG.17bis another perspective view of the compact utility loader fromFIGS.1-6, magnified to illustrate a track assembly directly connecting a loader arm to a frame of the compact utility loader and having a portion of the compact utility loader removed to illustrate a rear link, a control link, and an actuator indirectly connecting the loader arm to the frame;

FIG.18 is an exploded view of the compact utility loader fromFIGS.17aand17b, particularly illustrating the track assembly, the rear link, the control link, and the actuator;

FIG.19ais another partial perspective view of the compact utility loader fromFIGS.1-6, magnified to illustrate a track assembly directly connecting a loader arm to a frame of the compact utility loader, with the loader arm transitioning between a lowered position and a raised position;

FIG.19bis another partial perspective view similar toFIG.19a, with the loader arm in the raised position;

FIG.20 is a side elevation view of a compact utility loader according to a second embodiment of the present invention, with loader arms of the compact utility loader in a lowered position;

FIG.21 is a side elevation view of the compact utility loader fromFIG.20, with the loader arms in a raised position;

FIG.22 is a side elevation view of a compact utility loader according to a third embodiment of the present invention, with loader arms of the compact utility loader in a lowered position;

FIG.23 is a side elevation view of the compact utility loader fromFIG.22, with the loader arms in a raised position;

FIG.24 is a side elevation view of a compact utility loader according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, with loader arms of the compact utility loader in a lowered position;

FIG.25 is a side elevation view of the compact utility loader fromFIG.24, with the loader arms in a raised position;

FIG.26 is another rear perspective view of the loader fromFIGS.1-6, particularly illustrating a control station located at a rear of the compact utility loader;

FIG.27 is a rear elevation view of the compact utility loader fromFIG.26, with a portion of a radiator cut away to illustrate a fan positioned below a control panel of the compact utility loader;

FIG.28 is another rear elevation view of the compact utility loader fromFIG.27, with the control panel raised to illustrate pilot control valve assemblies associated with joysticks of the compact utility loader;

FIG.29 is graphical user interface in the form of a Login Screen that can be presented on a graphic display of the compact utility loader of embodiments of the present invention;

FIG.30 is a graphical user interface in the form of an initial version of an Operations Screen that can be presented on a graphic display of the compact utility loader of embodiments of the present invention;

FIG.31 is a graphical user interface in the form of an additional version of an Operations Screen that can be presented on a graphic display of the compact utility loader of embodiments of the present invention;

FIG.32 is a graphical user interface in the form of yet an additional version of an Operations Screen that can be presented on a graphic display of the compact utility loader of embodiments of the present invention;

FIG.33 is a graphical user interface in the form of still an additional version of an Operations Screen that can be presented on a graphic display of the compact utility loader of embodiments of the present invention; and

FIG.34 is another partial rear perspective view of the compact utility loader fromFIGS.1-6, particularly illustrating a control panel being raised to provide access to a radiator and fan for cleaning.

The drawing figures do not limit the present invention to the specific embodiments disclosed and described herein. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description of the present invention references various embodiments. The embodiments are intended to describe aspects of the invention in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments can be utilized and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense. The scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

General

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a utility loader10 (the “loader10”), as illustrated in exemplaryFIGS.1-5. Broadly, theloader10 may comprise aframe12 supported on the ground by adrive assembly14. As will be discussed in more detail below, in addition to supporting theloader10 on the ground, thedrive assembly14 is configured to propel theloader10 over the ground. Theloader10 may additionally comprise a pair of vertically-shiftable loader arms16 supported by theframe12. Theloader arms16 are configured to support various types ofattachments18 for performing various types of work, as required by an operator of theloader10. Theloader10 may include acontrol station20 positioned at a rear of theframe12. Thecontrol station20 may include a control panel22 (SeeFIGS.1,4, and5) with a plurality of control elements (e.g., buttons, switches, levers, joysticks, etc.) to permit the operator to control operation of theloader10, as will be described in more detail below.

As used herein, directional terms are implemented from the perspective of an operator standing at the control station20 (located at the rear of the loader10) and facing the opposite end of the loader10 (i.e., facing a front end of theloader10. Thus, the terms “front” and “forward” mean a longitudinal direction towards the front end of theloader10. It is noted that theattachment18 is supported at the front end of the loader by connection to front ends of theloader arms16. The terms “back,” “rear”, or “rearward” mean a longitudinal direction towards the back end of theloader10 which includes thecontrol station20. The term “left” or “leftward” means a left lateral direction from the perspective of the operator standing at thecontrol station20 and facing forward, and the terms “right” or “rightward” means a right lateral direction from the perspective of the operator standing at thecontrol station20 and facing forward.

Theloader10 may comprise a “compact utility loader” or a “CUL.” As used herein the term “compact utility loader” refers to a loader that is a self-propelled machine having an operating mass of less than about 3400 pounds and having one or more loader arms configured to support various interchangeable, attachments that are operably connected with front ends of the loader arms. The attachments may be tools that have hydraulically-driven auxiliary functions, such as augers, grinders, tillers, rollers, trenchers, digger derrick, or the like. Alternatively, the attachments may comprise buckets, forks, or the like. Often, a compact utility loader will be operated by an operator standing on, or walking behind, a rear end of the loader. Compact utility loaders are different from standard loaders, such as skid-steer loaders, which are large and quite heavy. Generally, an operator of such a standard loader (e.g., a skid-steer loader) will operate the loader while seated in an operating compartment of the loader. Beneficially, because compact utility loaders have a smaller size and weight than standard loaders (e.g., a skid-steer loaders), compact utility loaders can be much more maneuverable and provide more efficient load/weight distribution than standard loaders.

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to aloader10 withloader arms16 having a “vertical-lift configuration.” As used herein, the term “vertical-lift configuration” means a configuration ofloader arms16 in which the entirety of the loader arms shifts its position upward, downward, forward, and/or rearward with respect to theframe12 of theloader10 as the loader arms transition between lowered and raised positions. Such vertical-lift configured loader arms can beneficially raise an attachment (e.g., a bucket or other tool) along a substantially vertical path. A vertical-lift configuration is different from a “pivot-lift configuration” (also commonly referred to as a “radial lift configuration) in which the loader arms are secured to the frame via a fixed pivot point. As such the portion of the loader arms that are fixed to the frame via the pivot points do not shift its position upward, downward, forward, and/or rearward with respect to the frame (as is required for a vertical-lift configuration). In a pivot-lift configuration, the forward ends of the loader arms travel further away (in a forward direction) from the frame of the loader (and/or a center of gravity of the loader) while the loader arms are being moved between lowered and raised positions. The attachment (e.g., the bucket) being supported by the loader arms may be supporting a heavy load, such that the shifting the attachment too far away from the loader's center of gravity can cause the loader to tip forward, which can be dangerous to the operator, as well as the loader and its load. Another advantage of a vertical lift configuration over a pivot-lift configuration is when the loader arms are completely raised, the pivot-lift configuration brings its loads back toward the middle of the loader, thus, making it more difficult to dump (in the embodiments in which the attachment is a bucket) into a container or dump truck. A vertical-lift configuration has the advantage of more reach away from the loader when the loader arms are fully lifted.

Returning to theloader10 of embodiments of the present invention in more detail, and with reference toFIG.6, theframe12 may form a housing that defines an interior compartment within which various components of the loader10 (e.g., engine, hydraulic system, etc.) are housed and supported, as will be discussed in more detail below. Turning toFIGS.7-9, theframe12 may comprise aleft side30 and aright side32, which are connected together via abottom side34. As such, theframe12 presents the interior compartment for supporting various components of theloader10. Returning toFIGS.3 and6, ahood36 may be hingedly connected a top of theframe14 so as to enclose and present a covering for the components supported with the interior compartment of theframe12 of theloader10. Thehood36 may be formed from plastic, fiberglass, or other similar material. As shown inFIG.6, the hood can be raised (SeeFIG.6) so as to provide access to the components supported with the interior compartment of theframe12 of theloader10 so as to facilitate efficient service and maintenance of theloader10.

With reference toFIGS.1 and2, thedrive assembly14 of the loader may comprise a pair ofendless tracks40 that extend from either exterior side of theframe12. In more detail, thedrive assembly14 may comprise a pair of track frames42, with eachtrack frame42 being rigidly secured to one exterior side of theframe12 of theloader10. As perhaps best shown inFIG.9 the leftside track frame42 may be rigidly secured (e.g., via welding) to theleft side30 of theframe12, so as to extend laterally away from theframe12. Similarly, the rightside track frame42 may be rigidly secured (e.g., via welding) to theright side32 of theframe12, so as to extend laterally away from theframe12. One of thetracks40 may loop around each of the track frames42 so as to present aleft track42 and aright track40. As shown inFIGS.1 and2, the track frames42 may include one or more wheels (e.g., idler wheels, bogey wheels, etc.) rotatably secured thereto, so as to permit thetracks40 to rotate around the track frames42. Thetracks40 may be formed from rubber, metal, or combinations thereof. Although theloader10 is illustrated as havingtracks40, in some embodiments, theloader10 may include one or more wheels on eachside30,32 of theframe12 to support and to propel theloader10.

To facilitate rotation of thetracks42, thedrive assembly14 may additionally comprise a pair ofdrive sprockets44 positioned on either exterior side of theframe12 of theloader10, as shown inFIGS.1 and2. Specifically, in some embodiments, a leftside drive sprocket44 may extend from theleft side30 of the frame at a position above the leftside track frame42. Similarly, a rightside drive sprocket44 may extend from theright side32 of theframe12 at a position above the leftside track frame42. Each of thetracks40 may be looped around both of the associatedtrack frame42 and drivesprocket44. As such, thetracks40 may be configured in a triangular shape. As perhaps best shown inFIG.8, an interior surface of thetracks40 may be formed with nubs that engage with teeth of thedrive sprockets44, such that rotation of thedrive sprockets44 will cause a corresponding rotation of thetracks40. As such, theloader10 can be propelled by rotating thedrive sprockets44, which causes rotation of thetracks40.

To assist in providing enhanced maneuverability and weight distribution of theloader10, theloader10 may be configured to have both a small, overall width (relative to other common, previously-used loaders) but large oroversized tracks40. In more detail, and with reference toFIG.7, theloader10 may have an overall, lateral width W1 (i.e., extending from the lateral-most point on each side of the loader10) that is no more than 44 inches, no more than 42 inches, no more than 40 inches, no more than 38 inches, no more than 36 inches, no more than 34 inches, no more than 32 inches, no more than 30 inches, or no more than 28 inches. In addition, theloader10 may includetracks40 that each have a width W2 of at 7.5 inches, least 8 inches, at least 9 inches, at least 10 inches, at least 11 inches, or at least 12 inches. In some embodiments, a ratio of the track width W2 to the overall width W1 of theloader10 may be at least 1:4, at least 5:18, at least 1:3, at least 7:18, or at least 4:9. Such a configuration (i.e., aloader10 having a narrow overall width W1 and tracks40 having a large width W2) permits theloader10 to be highly maneuverable, while maintaining preferred load/weight distribution onto the ground. As such, theloader10 can successfully maneuver in tight spaces (e.g., through lawn gates) and over various types of terrain (e.g., soft or muddy ground) without causing ruts while carrying different types of attachments (e.g., a hydraulically-driven attachment or a bucket) to perform various types of operations. In certain embodiments, the use of such large,oversized tracks40 will allow theloader10 to exert a pressure of no more than 3.7 pounds per square inch (psi), no more than 3.8 psi, no more than 3.9 psi, no more than 4.0 psi, or no more than 4.1 psi onto the ground. Such pressure is exerted on the ground even in embodiments in which theloader10 weighs between 3000 and 3400 pounds, between 3100 and 3300 pounds, or about 3200 pounds.

Returning to theframe12, theloader10 is configured to have (i) a generally narrow overall width W1 (e.g., about 36 inches wide), and (ii) a pair of generally large, oversized tracks10 (e.g., each about 10 inches wide), in part, due to the frame12 (or at least a portion thereof) being shaped in the form of the letter “T.” As illustrated inFIG.7, a cross-section of theloader10 illustrates how theframe12 is formed in a “T” shape. In more detail, theframe12 may broadly comprise anupper portion46 and alower portion48. Specifically, theleft side30 of theframe12 may comprise an upper panel30(a) and a lower panel30(b), which are connected by a lateral panel30(c). Similarly, theright side32 of theframe12 may comprise an upper panel32(a) and a lower panel32(b), which are connected by a lateral panel32(c). The upper panels30(a),32(a) may form theupper portion46 of theframe12, while the lower panels30(b),32(b) may form thelower portions48 of theframe12. Thebottom side34 of theframe12 may also form part of thelower portion48 of theframe12. To provide theframe12 with the T-shape, thelower portion48 of theframe12 may have a width W3 that is less than a width W4 of theupper portion46. In some specific embodiments, the width W3 may be between 11 and 19 inches, between 13 and 17 inches, or about 15 inches, while the width W4 may be about between 17 and 25 inches, between 19 and 23 inches, or about 21 inches. As such, in some embodiments, a ratio between the width W3 and W4 will be between 3:5 and 4:5, between 3:5 and 13:15, or about 7:10 (or about 2:3, or about 11:15, or about 4:5).

Given the differences in width between thelower portion48 and theupper portion46 of theframe12, theframe12 may presenttrack wells49, as perhaps shown inFIGS.1 and2, configured to receive at least a portion of thetracks40 of theloader10. Thetrack wells49 may be defined by the space below the lateral panels30(c),32(c) and to the exterior side of the lower panels30(b),32(b). In more detail, and returning toFIG.7, and as was described previously, theloader10 may include atrack frame42 extending from each lateral side of thelower portion46 theframe12. Specifically, the track frames42 may be secured to (e.g., via welding) and extend laterally away from the lower panels30(b),32(b) of theloader10frame12. As was described above, eachtrack frame42 is configured to support a large,oversized track40. As such, thetracks40 will be positioned within thewells49, at least partly underneath theupper portions46 of theframe12. Such a configuration permits the use of large,oversized tracks40 while allowingloader10 to have a small overall width W1.

In certain embodiments, theframe12 of theloader10 may have a front-to-back length (excluding the attachment18) of between 60 and 100 inches, between 70 and 90 inches, or about 85 inches. Theframe12 of theloader10 may have a top-to-bottom height (as measured with theloader arms16 in the down position) of between 40 and 70 inches, between 50 and 60 inches, or about 55 inches. In some embodiments, theloader10 will be configured with a ground clearance (as measured from the ground to thebottom side34 of the frame of between 6 and 10 inches, between 7 and 9 inches, or about 7.5 inches.

Some embodiments of the present invention are further configured to provide theloader10 with a small overall width W1 and large,oversized tracks40 by providing for thesprockets44 to be formed in a conical shape. In more detail, with reference toFIG.8 (such conical shape is also illustrated inFIGS.1 and2), thesprockets44 may have a circular base about which a plurality of teeth are circumferentially spaced. Generally, the base of eachsprocket44 will be positioned adjacent to therespective side30,32 of theframe10. A rotational axis of eachsprocket44 will generally extend through a center of the circular base of thesprocket44. From the base, thesprockets44 each extend laterally outward while narrowing to a hub so as to provide thesprocket44 with the conical shape. In some embodiments, thesprockets44 will extend from the base to the hub via a plurality of circumferentially spaced spokes. The rotational axis of eachsprocket44 will generally extend through a center of the hub of thesprocket44. In view of the above description, thesprockets44 will have a conical shape with a radius (i.e., a distance from the rotational axis to an outer edge of the base) or a diameter of the base being larger than a radius (i.e., a distance from the rotational axis to an outer edge of the hub) or a diameter of the hub. Thus, the diameter of thesprockets44 becomes larger as the sprockets extend from outboard to inboard when positioned on theloader10.

As noted above, the conical shape of thesprockets44 assists in allowing theloader10 to have a generally small overall width W1, yet large, oversized tracks40. Specifically, theloader10 may include a pair ofhydraulic motors50 positioned on either side of the frame12 (a schematic depiction of a powertrain of theloader10 is shown inFIG.10, with the powertrain including themotors50, anengine52, ahydraulic pump54, and a flywheel56). Portions of the powertrain are also illustrated within theloader10 inFIGS.9 and11. In some embodiments, themotors50 may be attached to an exterior side of the left andright sides30,32 of theframe12. For instance, themotors50 may be attached to the lower panels30(b),32(b) of theframe12. In some specific embodiments, as illustrated inFIG.12, themotors50 may each be at least partially enclosed in amotor housing58 that forms part of the left andright sides30,32 of the frame12 (theleft side motor50 is not shown inFIG.12, only the left side motors housing58 is shown). Each of themotors50 may include a driveshaft that extends laterally from theframe12. An end of each driveshaft is configured to secure to the hub of an associatedsprocket44. As such, themotors50 are configured to rotate their driveshafts and, thus, thesprockets44. Because of the conical shape of thesprockets44, the bases of the sprockets will be positioned inward away from the hub and towards theframe12 of theloader10. As noted previously, the teeth of thesprockets44 are positioned on the base of thesprockets44. Due to the conical shape of thesprockets44, the teeth of thesprockets44 can be positioned inward, closer to thesides30,32 of theframe12. As was described previously, the teeth of thesprockets44 engage with the nubs on thetracks40 to cause thetracks40 to actuate. Stated differently, the base of the sprockets44 (which are the inboard-most portion of the sprockets44) are the portions of thesprockets44 that engage with theirrespective tracks40. The nubs are generally positioned at a center of thetracks40. As a result of the teeth being positioned closer to thesides30,32 of theframe12, thetracks40 can likewise be positioned closer to thesides30,32 of theframe12. By allowing thetracks40 to be positioned closer to thesides30,32 of theframe12, the left and right side tracks40 can be positioned closer together, such that theloader10 can have a generally small overall width W1, yet use large, oversized tracks40.

Theloader10 may additionally include astop element59, as illustrated inFIG.8, which extends from one of thesides30,32 of theframe12 and is configured to selectively engage with asprocket44 so as to prevent rotation of thesprocket44 and, thus, to prevent rotation of thetrack40. In some embodiments, theloader10 will include astop element59 extending from eachside30,32 of the frame, such that one of thestop elements59 can engage with each of theleft side sprocket44 and theright side sprocket44 so as to prevent actuation of both the left side and theright side track40. Thestop elements59 may be hydraulically actuated from retracted positions, in which thestop elements59 do not engage with the sprockets44 (and, thus, do not prevent rotation of the sprockets44), to an extended position where the stop elements are engaged with the sprockets by being positioned between adjacent teeth of the sprockets44 (and, thus, restrict rotation of the sprockets44). With thestop elements59 engaged with thesprockets44, thestop elements59 may function as parking brakes or emergency brakes for theloader10, so as to prevent theloader10 from inadvertent or unwanted movement by inhibiting rotation of thesprockets44 and/or actuation of thetracks40.

An interior compartment presented by theframe12 of theloader10 is depicted inFIG.9. The interior compartment is configured to receive, house, and support various components of theloader10, such as theengine52 and thehydraulic pump54. In more detail, theengine52 may be generally positioned towards a rear of theframe12, within a rear portion of the interior compartment. Such rearward shifting of theengine52 provides space for secondary, internal components of theloader10 to be positioned within a front portion of the interior compartment. Such internal components include portions of a hydraulic system of theloader10, such as ahydraulic pump54, a hydraulic fluid reservoir, hydraulic lines, and the like. The secondary, internal components may additionally include a fuel tank, fuel lines, a hydraulic filter, a fuel filter, a water separator, and the like. Such internal components can be easily accessed by lifting thehood36, which covers the internal components during operation, as is illustrated byFIG.6.

Thehydraulic pump54 is also positioned within the interior compartment forward of theengine52. In some embodiments, theflywheel56 will be positioned between theengine52 and thehydraulic pump54. Regardless, thehydraulic pump54 will generally be positioned between the hydraulic motors50 (illustrated schematically inFIG.10), such that thehydraulic pump54 can provide hydraulic power to themotors50 so as to drive the motors50 (which themselves drive theconical sprockets44 and, thus, the tracks40). As such, theengine52 will be positioned rearward of thehydraulic motors50. In more detail, theengine52 may be an internal combustion engine, such as a diesel engine, that generates power to be used by thehydraulic pump54. As noted previously, thehydraulic pump54 provides pressurized hydraulic fluid to themotors50 to actuate thesprockets44 and tracks40. In some embodiments, thehydraulic pump54 may include and/or may be associated with a hydrostatic transmission which provides hydraulic fluid to themotors50 to drive thesprockets44 and tracks40. Theflywheel56 may be used to maintain a consistent power output from the motor during varying RPMs. In certain embodiments, theflywheel56 may include a housing that houses the internal components of theflywheel56.

To support theengine52 and theflywheel56, embodiments of the present invention may include support brackets (illustrated inFIGS.9 and11-13) that beneficially do not contact thesides30,32 of theframe12. In more detail, as shown inFIGS.9,11, and13, theloader10 may include an improved stabilizedengine mount60. Theengine mount60 is configured to secure theengine52 to theframe12 at points below theengine52, instead of traditional methods that might secure theengine52 at the side of theengine52. In more detail, as perhaps best shown inFIGS.11 and13, theengine mount60 is secured to thebottom side34 of theframe12, so as to secure theengine52 to thebottom side34 of theframe12. As such, theengine52 is free of attachment to either of thesides30,32 of theframe12, as shown in the top plan view ofFIG.9. Theengine52 being free of attachment to thesides30,32 of theframe12 increases the area around theengine52 that an operator or repairman may reach to perform various repair, service, and/or maintenance tasks. Further, for removal of theengine52 from the interior compartment, theengine52 may be released from theengine mount60 and/or thebottom side34 of theframe12 via anaccess port61 formed in thebottom side34 of theframe12 forward of the engine mount60 (See, e.g.,FIG.11). Theaccess port61 may have a rectangular shape and may generally be covered by a panel that can be removed (e.g., via release of fasteners) so as to provide access to theaccess port61. Such release of theengine52 from theengine mount60 may be advantageously performed even before the full weight of theengine52 is otherwise supported (e.g., by a lift, crane, or the like).

As was described above, and as illustrated inFIGS.9,11, and13, theengine52 is supported towards the rear of theloader10 by theengine mount60, which is supported on thebottom side34 of theframe12. As perhaps best illustrated inFIG.13, theengine mount60 may comprises a base element60(a), a vertically extending left extension bracket60(b), a vertically extending right extension bracket60(c), and a frame attachment component60(d). As such, the base element60(a) extends laterally between the left and right extension brackets60(b) and (c), which extend upward from the base element60(a). Thus, in some embodiments, theengine mount60 may be at least partially formed with a U-shape when viewed from the front or the back (see, e.g.,FIG.13). In some embodiments, the frame attachment component60(d) will be secured to thebottom side34 of theloader10frame12 via welding or fasteners. However, in other embodiments, the frame attachment component60(d) may be integrally formed with thebottom side34 of theloader10frame12, in which case the frame attachment component60(d) may form part of theloader10frame12 instead of theengine mount60. The base segment60(a) may be secured to the frame attachment component60(d), such as via a fastener that is accessible from theaccess port61 for efficient removal of the engine52 (such as for service, repair, or replacement). If necessary, theengine mount60 may also be removed from theframe12 of theloader10.

It should be appreciated that theengine mount60 is physically separated from thesides30,32 of theframe12, as illustrated inFIG.9, so as to improve access to theengine52 for maintenance and repairs thereof. Upper ends of the left extension bracket60(b) and the right extension bracket60(c) may be secured to the left and right sides of theengine52, respectively, such as via fasteners (See, e.g.,FIG.11), so as to keep theengine52 stable and structurally supported to theframe12. Specifically, theengine52 will generally be positioned between and secured to the left extension bracket60(b) and the right extension bracket60(c).

In addition, theloader10 may include an improved stabilizedflywheel mount62, as illustrated inFIGS.9,11, and12. Theflywheel mount62 is configured to secure theflywheel56 to theframe12 at points below theflywheel56. Specifically, theflywheel mount62 is configured to secure the housing offlywheel56 to theframe12. In more detail, theflywheel mount62 is secured to thebottom side34 of theframe12, so as to secure the flywheel56 (or the housing of theflywheel56 more specifically) to thebottom side34 of theframe12. As such, theflywheel56 and/or the housing of theflywheel56 is free of attachment to thesides30,32 of theframe12. Theflywheel56 and/or the housing of theflywheel56 being free of attachment to thesides30,32 of theframe12 increases the area around theflywheel56 that an operator or repairman may reach to perform various service, repair, and maintenance tasks. Further, for removal of theflywheel56 from the interior compartment, theflywheel56 may be released from theflywheel mount62 and/or thebottom side34 of theframe12 via theaccess port61 previously described, or asecond access port63 formed in thebottom side34 of theframe12 forward of the flywheel mount62 (See, e.g.,FIG.11). Theaccess port63 may have a rectangular shape and may generally be covered by a panel that can be removed (e.g., via release of fasteners) so as to provide access to theaccess port63. Such release of theflywheel56 may be performed even before the full weight of theflywheel56 is otherwise supported (e.g., by a lift, crane, or the like).

With respect toFIG.12, theflywheel mount62 is shown secured to both thebottom side34 of theframe12 and the flywheel56 (or the housing of theflywheel56 more specifically). Theflywheel mount62 is secured to thebottom side34 of theframe12 by two lower fasteners, which are secured to a protrusion that extends upward from the bottom34 side of theframe12. Such a protrusion is illustrated as a trapezoidal prism. The fasteners allow for theflywheel mount62 to be released from theframe12 if necessary.

Theflywheel mount62 may have a generally V-shape (when viewed from the front or back as shown inFIG.12) and comprises a left protrusion62(a) and a right protrusion62(b), which are each secured to one of the respective downward protrusions of the flywheel56 (or the housing of theflywheel56 more specifically). An upper fastener is disposed between the flywheel56 (or the housing of theflywheel56 more specifically) and each of the left and right protrusions62(a) and (b) of theflywheel mount62. Such upper fasteners may be removed for removal of theflywheel56 from theflywheel mount62.

Remaining withFIGS.9 and11, thehydraulic pump54 may be secured to theframe12 via apump bracket64 that is directly connected to one of thesides30,32 of theframe12. Thepump bracket64 may be used to brace thepump54 to reduce vibrations or to otherwise stabilize thepump54.

Shown inFIG.9 are theengine mount60 and theflywheel mount62 being disposed within the internal compartment of theframe12 defined by theleft side30, the right32, and thebottom side34. It should be appreciated that theengine mount60 and theflywheel mount62 are both physically separated from thesides30,32 of theframe12, such that a gap exists between both theengine mount60 and theflywheel mount62 and thesides30,32 of theframe12. Instead, theengine mount60 and theflywheel mount62 are both secured to thebottom side34 of theframe12. Theengine mount60 and theflywheel mount62 both extend upwardly from thebottom side34 of theframe12 and are free of connection to thesides30,32 of theframe12. Theengine mount60 and theflywheel mount62 both secure to their respective components (i.e., theengine52 and the flywheel56) away from a geometric center of such components (i.e., connection is made to the sides of the components) so as to provide lateral stability while still enabling easy access to the sides of theengine52 andflywheel56, respectively. As such, and in summary, theengine52 is positioned within a rearward portion of the interior compartment and is secured to thebottom side34 of theframe12 via theengine mount60. A forward end of theengine52 is secured to a rearward end of the flywheel56 (and/or a rearward end of the housing that supports the components of flywheel56), which is secured to thebottom side34 of theframe12 via theflywheel mount62. A forward end of the flywheel56 (and/or a forward end of the housing that supports the components of flywheel56) is secured to a rearward end of thepump54, which is secured to one of thesides30,32 of theframe12 at a front end of thepump54.

As shown above, the fasteners of theflywheel housing mount62 and theengine mount60 may be accessed from below theloader10 for removal of theengine52 and/orflywheel56. Specifically, the twoaccess ports61,63 are disposed in thebottom side34 of theframe12 to allow for access to the respective fasteners, as well as other components of the loader10 (e.g., for access to and efficient removal of the pump54).

Loader Arm Configuration

Embodiments of the present invention include improved, stabilizedloader arms16 for theloader10, as illustrated inFIGS.1,2, and14a(with theloader arms16 in a lowered position) andFIG.14b(with theloader arms16 in a raised position). In more detail, and as will be discussed in more detail below, theloader arms16 may be retained adjacent to and/or secured or attached directly to theframe12. By being retained adjacent to and/or secured or attached directly to theframe12, embodiments of the present invention inhibit lateral or yawing motion of theloader arms16, such as when theloader arms16 are loaded with a heavy or an uneven load or when theloader10 is driving over uneven terrain. Although theloader arms16, which are described in more detail below, are retained adjacent to and/or secured or attached directly to theframe12, theloader arms16 are nevertheless configured in a vertical-lift configuration. As such, theloader arms16 provide theloader10 with advantages of a vertical-lift configuration, such raising loads substantially vertically while keeping theloader arms16 securely aligned with theframe12 of theloader10. Additional benefits of theloader arms16 having the vertical-lift configuration include keeping loads longitudinally close to a center of gravity of theloader10. Further, loads are generally prevented from being raised directly over the top of theloader10, to minimize risks of loads striking theloader10 or impacting the operator when being lifted. Such benefits are generally not provided by traditional, pivot-lift configured loader arms which actuate in a wide arcuate motion. Such arcuate motion often includes the attachment bringing the loads above the loader, which can pose a danger to the loader and/or to the operator.

In more detail, theloader arms16 of theloader10 are configured to operate with an extended reach and enhanced breakout strength.FIGS.15aand15billustrate atravel path66 made by front ends of the loader arms16 (and/or of theattachment18 supported by the loader arms16) as theloader arms16 transition between the lowered and raised positions.FIG.15ashows an initial portion of thetravel path66 from the lowered position to an intermediate position, whileFIG.15billustrates a secondary portion of thetravel path66 from the intermediate position to the raised position. In more detail, thetravel path66 may be defined as a path travelled by anattachment hitch pin68 of the loader10 (when viewing theloader10 from a side elevation, see e.g.,FIGS.15aand15b). In more detail, each of theloader arms16 may include anattachment hitch pin68 positioned at the front end of therespective loader arm16. The attachment hitch pins68 may be used to connect anattachment18 to theloader arms16. Specifically, as shown inFIGS.14a-15b, the hitch pins68 may secure a hitch plate69 (e.g., a quick hitch assembly) to theloader arms16, with thehitch plate69 comprising a connection assembly configurable to secure attachments to theloader arms16. Thehitch plate69 is generally configured to support one or more types ofattachments18 thereon.

Turning toFIG.16, thetravel path66 of theloader arms16 is illustrated on a two-dimensional axis (i.e., an “x” “y” axis). As shown, thetravel path66 may approximate the function:
ƒ(x)=4.641e^0.34x.
The horizontal direction (e.g., the forward/rearward direction) traveled by theloader arms16 and/or the hitch pins68 represents the “x” coordinate, while the vertical direction (e.g., the upward/downward direction) traveled by theloader arms16 and/or the hitch pins68 represents the “y” coordinate. Stated differently, for each “x” coordinate there is corresponding “y” coordinate, such that the set of “y” coordinates can be represented by the function “ƒ(x).” When theloader arms16 are completely lowered, thehitch pin68 is positioned in a base position, where as illustrated inFIG.16, the “x” coordinate equals 0 and ƒ(x) equals 4.641 (i.e., thehitch pin68 is positioned at 4.641 inches above the ground). Furthermore, a maximum vertical height of the loader arms16 (as defined by the vertical height of thehitch pin68 above the ground) may be at least 80 inches, at least 82 inches, at least 84 inches, at least 85 inches, at least 86 inches, at least 87 inches, or at least 88 inches. In some embodiments, theactual path66 travelled by theloader arms16 and/or thehitch pin68 will deviate no more than 1.5, no more than 1.4, no more than 1.3, no more than 1.2, no more than 1.1, or no more than 1.0 inches in the horizontal direction (i.e., the “x” coordinate value) from the curve ƒ(x)=4.641e^0.34xfor each “y” coordinate value. A maximum horizontal reach of the loader arms16 (as defined by the forward, longitudinal reach of the hitch pin68) may be at least 6 inches, at least 7 inches, at least 8 inches, at least 9 inches, or at least 10 inches forward of the base position.

In some further embodiments, as perhaps show, inFIGS.1 and13, one or both of theloader arms16 of theloader10 may include a rotatablehydraulic line guide70 secured to an exterior side of theloader arms16. Theline guide70 may comprise a ring-shaped (e.g., circular or oval) element rotatably connected to aloader arm16 via a fastener. In general, the fastener will be positioned horizontally and will provide a rotational axis about which theline guide70 is free to rotate with respect to theloader arms16. Theline guide70 is configured to receive hydraulic lines, tubes, or hoses that may extend from the interior compartment of theloader10 to theattachment18. In some embodiments, such hydraulic lines will extend (at least partially) through an interior of theloader arms16. In other embodiments, such lines may extend (at least partially) along an exterior of theloader arms16. Rotation of theline guide70 permits that hydraulic lines to be securely held in place as theloader arms16 and/or theattachment18 moves (e.g., as theloader arms16 shifting upward and downward). Such aline guide70 also prevents premature wearing and other damage to the hydraulic lines over time.

As noted above, embodiments provide for theloader10 to includeloader arms16 having a vertical-lift configuration but which are stabilized by direct connection to theframe12, as illustrated inFIGS.17aand17b. As was also described above, theframe12 may comprise anupper portion46 and alower portion48. Thelower portion48 of theframe12 is configured to support the track frames42 (which supports the tracks40) and thedrive sprockets44. Theupper portion46 of theframe12 is configured to support theloader arms16 via a direct connection between theframe12 and theloader arms16, as is shown inFIGS.17aand17b. It should be understood that in some embodiments, theupper portion46 and thelower portion48 are integrally formed elements of theframe12. Nevertheless, theupper portion46 may comprise the two spaced apart generally vertical upper panels30(a),32(a). In some embodiments, the upper panels30(a),32(a) are generally mirrored and parallel with each other. Similarly, thelower portion48 may comprise the two spaced apart generally vertical lower panels30(b),32(b). In some embodiments, the lower panels30(b),32(b) are generally mirrored and parallel with each other.

In more detail, and with reference toFIGS.17a-19b, each of theloader arms16 may be attached to theframe12 via arear link72, acontrol link74, anactuator76, and atrack assembly78. AlthoughFIGS.17a-19bfocus on the left siderear link72, the leftside control link74, theleft side actuator76, and the leftside track assembly78, it should be understood that theloader10 includes corresponding components on the right side of the loader which are configured in a mirrored or parallel relationship with the right side components (see, e.g.,FIGS.2-5). Such mirrored or parallel relationship is maintained as theloader arms16 transition between lowered and raised positions. In more detail, a leftside loader arm16 may be attached to theleft side30 of theframe12 via a left siderear link72, a leftside control link74, aleft side actuator76, and a leftside track assembly78. Similarly, a rightside loader arm16 may be attached to theright side32 of theframe12 via a right siderear link72, a rightside control link74, aright side actuator76, and a rightside track assembly78. Therear links72, the control links74, and theactuators76 provide an indirect connection/attachment between theloader arms16 and theframe12 of theloader10, while thetrack assemblies78 provide a direct connection/attachment between theloader arms16 and theframe12 of theloader10.

In some embodiments, a length of therear link72 is approximately equal to a length of thecontrol link74. In other embodiments, the length of therear link72 is between 70 to 130, between 80 to 120, or between 90 to 110 percent of the length of thecontrol link74. Furthermore, in some embodiments, a length of theactuator76 is larger than the lengths of therear link72 and thecontrol length10. For instance, with theactuator76 in an extended position, the length of theactuator76 may be at least 50 percent, at least 75 percent, at least 100 percent, or at least 150 percent greater than the lengths of therear length72 and thecontrol link74.

Each of therear links72 is rotatably secured (e.g., via a pivot pin connection) to one of the sides of theframe12 and rotatably secured (e.g., via a pivot pin connection) to a rear or proximal end of an associatedloader arm16. Each of the control links74 is rotatably secured (e.g., via a pivot pin connection) to one of the sides of theframe12 and rotatably secured (e.g., via a pivot pin connection) to an associatedloader arm16 at a position forward of the rear or proximal end of theloader arm16. Each of theactuators76 is rotatably secured (e.g., via a pivot pin connection) to one of the sides of theframe12 and rotatably secured (e.g., via a pivot pin connection) to an associatedloader arm16 at a position forward of the rear or proximal end of theloader arm16, and in some embodiments, forward of the points of connection of the rear andcontrol links72,74. As perhaps best shown inFIGS.17aand18, each side of theloader10 may include acover panel77 that covers lower portions of therear link72 and theactuator76, so as to cover the connections between therear link72 and theactuator76 to theframe12. In some embodiments, connection between therear link72 and theactuator76 to theframe12 may include a connection with thecover panel77. In some embodiments, thecover panels77 may form part of theframe12.

As shown inFIGS.1,17a, and17b, theloader arms16 are disposed in a lowered position. In this lowered position, therear links72 are disposed in a substantially vertical orientation, the control links74 are disposed at a substantially horizontal orientation, and theactuators76 are disposed at an angle therebetween. It should also be noted that each of theactuators76 extends across the associatedcontrol link74. InFIG.19b, theloader arms16 are disposed in a raised position. In this raised position, therear links72 continue to be disposed in a substantially vertical orientation (although the upper ends of therear links72 are shifted at least slightly forward along the track assemblies78), the control links74 are disposed at a substantially vertical orientation, and theactuators76 are disposed at an angle therebetween.FIG.19aillustrate theloader arms16 positioned intermediate the lowered and raised positions. In such a position, therear links72, the control links74, and theactuators76 are generally positioned in intermediate orientations between those described above inFIGS.17b(loader arms16 in the lowered positions) and19b(loader arms16 in the raised positions). It should also be noted that theactuators76 continue to extend across their associatedcontrol link74.

As was discussed previously, the manner in which theloader arms16 are attached to theframe12 provides for theloader arms16 to actuate in a vertical-lift configuration. In more detail, therear links72 and the control links74 support theloader arms16 with respect to theframe12 and provide for theloader arms16 to raise and lower in a vertical-lift configuration when actuated by theactuator76. In some embodiments, theactuators76 may comprise linear actuators, such as hydraulic cylinders (e.g., single or double-acting cylinders), pneumatic cylinders, and/or or electronic linear actuators. However, as discussed in more detail below, theloader arms16 may be actuated by various other types of actuators. The rear andcontrol links72,74 may comprise generally rigid elements that support theloader arms16 with respect to theframe12 as theloader arms16 are raised and lowered.

Although theloader arms16 are configured to operate in a vertical-lift configuration, thetrack assemblies78 permit theloader arms16 to be maintained directly attached to theframe12 during operation. As such, theloader arms16 may be directly attached to theframe14 at thetrack assemblies78, while being indirectly attached to theframe12 via therear links72, the control links74, and theactuators76.

With reference toFIG.18 In some embodiments, each of thetrack assemblies78 may be in the form of a running track that broadly comprises atrack body80 that includes an elongated, arcuate frame or border presenting an opening or recess within the frame/border of thetrack body80. As such, the opening or recess may likewise have an elongated, arcuate shape. Theloader arms16 may each be engaged with and/or attached to one of thetrack bodies80 such that a portion of theloader arm16 may travel along (e.g., slide forward/rearward and/or upward/downward) the opening presented by thetrack assembly78. Specifically, the openings of thetrack assemblies78 may act as guide paths along which at least a portion of theloader arms16 are configured to translate. Thetrack assemblies78 are configured to prevent or reduce torsion of theloader arms16 by preventing movement of theloader arms16 beyond thetrack assemblies78. For example, thetrack assemblies78 may counter or otherwise resist lateral or torsional movement of theloader arms16 so as to keep theloader arms16 in proper alignment with theframe12 of theloader10 during movement (e.g., raising/lowering) of theloader arms16.

With reference toFIG.18, thetrack body80 of each of thetrack assemblies78 may be integrally formed within (or monolithic with) the upper portion46 (e.g., the upper panels30(a),32(a)) of theframe12. For example, thetrack body80 is formed by stamping or embossing the metal of theframe12 to form thetrack body80. In alternative embodiments, thetrack body80 may be secured (e.g., via weld) to the upper portion46 (e.g., the upper panels30(a),32(a)) of theframe12. Regardless, as noted above, thetrack body80 presents an opening so as to form a running track. When thetrack body80 is integrally formed with theframe12, the opening may extend through a thickness of theframe12. Remaining withFIG.18, thetrack assemblies78 may each comprise apin82 that is associated with (e.g., extends through) arespective loader arm16 and/orrear link72. In some embodiments, thepins82 may be integrally formed with theloader arms16. In more detail, each of thepins82 may extend through a rear or proximal end of one of theloader arms16 and into engagement with thetrack body80 such that thepin82 extends at least partially within the opening presented by thetrack body80. In some embodiments, thepins82 may also extend through therear links72. Regardless, each of thepins82 is configured to move along the opening presented by thetrack body80. Specifically, thepins82 follow the guide paths presented by thetrack assemblies78. As theloader arms16 move from a lowered position (shown inFIGS.17aand17b) to a raised position (shown inFIG.19b), thepins82 shift between a rearward position of thetrack body80, along the opening of thetrack body80, and to a forward position of thetrack body80. Correspondingly, thepins82 may shift from the forward position to the rearward position while theloader arms16 move from the raised position to the lowered position. As a result, theloader arms16 are slidably connected to theframe12

To help facilitate movement of thepins82 through the opening of thetrack body80, and as perhaps best shown inFIGS.17b,18, and19b, each of thepins82 may include (or otherwise be associated with) acaptive runner84 configured to be received on an end of thepin82, with such end being the end that is engaged with thetrack body80. Thecaptive runners84 may comprise ring-shaped bushings or bearings that are secured to thepins82 in a manner that permits thecaptive runners84 to rotate with respect to thepins84. Furthermore, however, thecaptive runners84 will each include two annular protrusions and an annular recess groove extending around a circumference of thecaptive runner84, such that the captive runners84 (and thus the pins82) are held within the opening of thetrack body80 via engagement between the annular recess and a track wall presented as an interior edge of thetrack body80 that surrounds the opening. Such engagement may permit thecaptive runners84 to rotate or roll along thetrack body80 so as to reduce friction as thepins82 move forward and rearward through the opening of the track body80 (i.e., as theloader arms16 are raised and/or lowered).

As shown inFIG.17, One or more of the forward and rearward ends of the opening presented by each of thetrack bodies80 may be formed with anaccess ports86 that permits thecaptive runner84 and/or thepins82 to be inserted into and removed from engagement with thetrack assembly78. Theaccess ports86 may have a larger open area than remaining portions of the opening of thetrack body80, so as to allow thecaptive runner84 and/or thepin82 to pass therethrough. Such larger open area may be formed by reducing a width of thetrack wall86 near the forward and rearward ends of thetrack body80. The ability to remove thepins82 and/orcaptive runners84 from thetrack body80 permits theloader arms16 to be disengaged from thetrack assemblies78 for purposes of service and maintenance, as may become necessary. It should be noted however, that during normal operations of the loader10 (e.g., during raising and lowering of the loader arms16), thepins82 and/orcaptive runners84 will not become aligned with theaccess ports80, such that theloader arms16 will not become inadvertently disengaged with thetrack assemblies78

Finally, thetrack assemblies78 may each be associated with ahand guard88 that is rotatably attached to theframe12 of theloader10 directly above thetrack bodies80. The hand guards88 may cover the remaining components of thetrack assemblies80 so as to protect the operator from inadvertently placing his/her body parts (e.g., hands), clothing, etc. into engagement with thetrack assemblies78 which could cause damage or injury to the operator. Nevertheless, because the hand guards88 are rotatably attached to the frame12 (e.g., via pivot pins), the hand guards88 can be rotated upward away from the remaining components of thetrack assemblies78 when necessary to access such components of thetrack assemblies78.

In view of the above, each of thetrack assemblies78 presents an arcuate path that is configured to keep thecaptive runner84 and the pins82 (and by extension, the loader arms16) stable vertically (e.g., upward and downward), laterally (e.g., into and away from the frame), in a roll direction (e.g., thepins82 are restricted from moving upward and downward beyond the opening presented by the track body80), and in a yaw direction (e.g., thepins82 are restricted from moving forward and rearward beyond the opening presented by the track body80). Stated differently, thetrack assemblies78 prevent theloader arms16 from moving vertically, laterally, in a roll direction, and in a yaw direction with respect to thetrack assemblies78. The arcuate path of thetrack assembly78 allows movement only along and aligned with the guide path presented by the opening of thetrack body80. Thus, thetrack assemblies78 allow theloader arms16 to actuate in a vertical-lift configuration while being directly attached to theframe12 of theloader10.

In some further embodiments, thepins82 of thetrack assemblies78 may not be necessary to directly attach theloader arms16 to theframe12 and to still allow theloader arms16 to operate in a vertical lift configuration. For example, theloader arms16 may each be directly attached to the frame via atrack assembly78 that comprises atrack body80 and acaptive runner84 in the form of a track roller bearing configured to translate (e.g., slide) through the opening presented by thetrack body80 as theloader arm16 is raised and lowered. In such embodiments, each of thecaptive runners84 may be directly attached to arespective loader arm16 andtrack body80. Thus, as theloader arms16 are raised and lowered, thecaptive runner84 translates along thetrack body80, while maintaining a direct connection between theloader arms16 and theframe12. Additionally, in such embodiments, either therear links72 or the control links74 may be removed. Thus, theactuators76 and either therear links72 or the control links74 indirectly attach theloader arms16 to theframe12, while the track assemblies78 (without thepins82 but includingcaptive runners84 in the form of a track roller bearings) directly attach the loader arms to theframe12. As such, theloader arms16 will be raised and lowered in a vertical lift configuration by the force of theactuators76, while the track assemblies78 (includingcaptive runners84 in the form of a track roller bearings) maintain a direct connection between theloader arms16 and theframe12.

Alternative Vertical Lift Embodiments

Embodiments of the present invention additionally include compact utility loaders with alternate types of loader arms having a vertical-lift configuration. The below embodiments generally include a frame and one or more loader arms similar to those discussed above with respect to theloader10. For instance, the loader arms support an attachment, such as a bucket or hydraulically operated tool. An operator may raise and lower the loader arms (including the bucket or other tool) so as to perform any of various tasks.

For example, as shown inFIGS.20 and21, embodiments of the present invention include another stylecompact utility loader100 with a pair ofloader arms102 having a vertical-lift configuration. In this embodiment, eachloader arm102 of theloader100 is associated with arear link104 and acontrol link106 similar to therear link72 and thecontrol link74 discussed above with respect toloader10. Differently, however, eachloader arm102 of theloader100 is secured to therear link104 via arotary actuator108, such that therotary actuator108 is disposed between therear link104 and theloader arm102. Therotary actuator108 is configured to rotate theloader arm102 and/or therear link104 so as to change a relative angle between theloader arm102 and therear link104. Changing the relative angle between theloader arm102 and therear link104 permits theloader arm104 to shift between a lowered position and a raised position in a vertical-lift manner. Although the figures only illustrate one side of the loader100 (i.e., the left side), it should be understood that the opposite side of the loader100 (i.e., the right side) similarly includes aloader arm102, arear link104, acontrol link106, and anactuator108 that mirror those shown inFIGS.20 and21.

In some embodiments, therotary actuator108 may be secured to theloader arm102 and therear link104. In other embodiments, however, therotary actuator108 may be secured to thecontrol link106 and theloader arm102. Nevertheless, in either embodiment, therotary actuator108 may be permanently secured to theloader arm102 or therespective link104,106, imparting rotation on the other component, so as to cause theloader arm102 to raise and lower.

Therotary actuator108 produces a rotary motion. The rotary motion allows the operator to selectively raise and lower theloader arm102 relative to the frame of theloader100. In some embodiments, therotary actuator108 may be powered via hydraulic, pneumatic, or electrical power. In some of these embodiments, therotary actuator108 may be a linear piston-and-cylinder assembly that is stepped so as to produce rotation. In other of these embodiments, therotary actuator108 may be a rotating asymmetrical vane which swings through a cylinder of two different radii. The pressure differential between the two sides of the vane produces an unbalanced force which imparts a torque on an output shaft. In still other embodiments, therotary actuator108 is an electrically powered motor.

In some embodiments, therotary actuator108 may raise and lower the loader arm102 (and associated attachment) while therotary actuator108 positioned further from the ground than on loaders with traditional vertical lift configurations. In these traditional configurations, an actuator may be susceptible to dirt and other contaminants due to the actuator's relatively low position. Therotary actuator108 being disposed relatively high on the frame of theloader100, and having fewer exposed moving parts, may thus reduce the likelihood of contaminants affecting theactuator108.

In a second alternate embodiment of acompact utility loader120, shown inFIGS.22 and23, with a pair ofloader arms122 having a vertical-lift configuration. In this embodiment, eachloader arm122 of theloader120 is associated with arear link124 and acontrol link126 similar to therear link72 and thecontrol link74 discussed above with respect toloader10. Differently, however, theloader120 includes alinear actuator128 associated with eachloader arm122, with eachlinear actuator128 pivotably secured to one of thecontrol links126 and to the frame of theloader120 for raising and lowering theloader arms122. In more detail, thelinear actuators128 may each comprise a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, or an electric actuator that is rotatably secured to a side of the frame12 (e.g., aleft side30 or a right side32) and pivotably secured to thecontrol link126 of theloader120. As such, a rotational force is produced via linear telescoping action of thelinear actuator128 onto thecontrol link126. In this embodiment, each of thecontrol links126 may be pivotably secured to the frame12 (at a fulcrum positioned between thelinear actuator128 and the loader arm122) and pivotably secured to theloader arm122. Although the figures only illustrate one side of the loader120 (i.e., the left side), it should be understood that the opposite side of the loader120 (i.e., the right side) similarly includes aloader arm122, arear link124, acontrol link126, and anactuator128 that mirror those shown inFIGS.22 and23.

In more detail, embodiments provide for each of thecontrol links126 in this embodiment to function as a lever. As illustrated, the lever may present a general L-shape with a center portion of thecontrol link126 being a fulcrum that is rotatably connected to a side of the frame of theloader120. A first side of thecontrol link126 extends from the fulcrum to thelinear actuator128, while a second side of thecontrol link126 extends from the fulcrum to theloader arm122. The first side and the second side of thecontrol link126 extend at an angle with respect to each other so as to present the L-shape. In some embodiments, the first side and the second side of thecontrol link126 may extend at an angle of about ninety degrees, although various other angles may be implemented. The lengths of the first and second section of thecontrol link126 may be selected, as necessary, to provide a preferable mechanical advantage for the lever (e.g., such lengths may be selected so as to reduce the force input from theactuator128 necessary to cause displacement and/or rotation of thecontrol link126 and, thus, the loader arms122).

In some embodiments, the first side of thecontrol link126 will be positioned in a vertical orientation (e.g., downward orientation) when theloader arms122 are in the lowered position. Correspondingly, the second side of thecontrol link126 will be positioned in generally a horizontal orientation (and connected to the loader arm122). As such, when thelinear actuator128 is extended and retracted, the first side of thecontrol link126 is shifted forward or rearward relative to the fulcrum. Correspondingly, the second side of the control link126 (which is connected to the loader arms122) will be raised and lowered. In this way, actuation of thecontrol links126 by thelinear actuators128 will shift theloader arms122 relative to the frame of theloader120. Specifically, thelinear actuators128 are configured to raise theloader arms122 from a lowered position to a raised position by manipulating thecontrol links126 in a first direction, as well as being configured to lower theloader arms122 from the raised position to the lowered position by manipulating thecontrol links126 in a second direction.

In a third alternate embodiment of acompact utility loader130, as shown inFIGS.24 and25, with a pair ofloader arms132 having a vertical-lift configuration. In this embodiment, eachloader arm132 of theloader130 is associated with arear link134 and acontrol link136 similar to therear link72 and thecontrol link74 discussed above with respect toloader10. Differently, however, theloader130 includes alinear actuator138 associated with eachloader arm132, with eachlinear actuator138 pivotably secured to one of therear links134 and to the frame of theloader130 for raising and lowering theloader arms132. In more detail, thelinear actuators138 may each comprise a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, or an electrical actuator that is rotatably secured to a side of the frame12 (e.g., aleft side30 or a right side32) and pivotably secured to therear link134 of theloader130. As such, a rotational force is produced via linear telescoping action of thelinear actuator138 onto therear link134. In this embodiment, each of therear links134 may be pivotably secured to the frame12 (at a position between the connection points oflinear actuator138 and the loader arm132) and pivotably secured to theloader arm122. Although the figures only illustrate one side of the loader130 (i.e., the left side), it should be understood that the opposite side of the loader130 (i.e., the right side) similarly includes aloader arm132, arear link134, acontrol link136, and anactuator138 that mirror those shown inFIGS.24 and25.

In more detail, embodiments provide for therear link134 to function as a lever. As illustrated, the lever may present a general I-shape with a center portion of therear link134 being a fulcrum that is rotatably connected to a side of the frame of theloader130. A first side of therear link134 extends (e.g., downward) from the fulcrum to thelinear actuator138, while a second side of therear link134 extends (e.g., upward) from the fulcrum of theloader arm132. The first side and the second side of therear link134 may extend generally collinearly so as to present the I-shape. The lengths of the first and second section of therear link134 may be selected, as necessary, to provide a preferable mechanical advantage for the lever (e.g., such lengths may be selected so as to reduce the force input from theactuator138 necessary to cause displacement and/or rotation of thecontrol link134 and, thus, the loader arms132).

In some embodiments, therear links134 will be positioned in a generally vertical orientation when theloader arms132 are in the lowered position. As such, when thelinear actuator138 is extended and retracted, the first side of the rear link134 (e.g., a lower side) is shifted forward or rearward relative to the fulcrum. Correspondingly, the second side of the rear link134 (e.g., an upper side which is connected to the loader arm132) will be shifted rearward or forward relative to the fulcrum. As a result, theloader arms132 can be raised and lowered. More particularly, actuation of therear links134 by thelinear actuators138 will shift theloader arms132 relative to the frame of theloader130. Thelinear actuators138 are configured to raise theloader arms132 from a lowered position to a raised position by manipulating therear links134 in a first direction, as well as being configured to lower theloader arms132 from the raised position to the lowered position by manipulating therear links134 in a second direction.

In other embodiments, not illustrated, theloaders100,120,130, may include actuators operably attached to both the rear link and the control link. Regardless, as illustrated above with respect to theloaders100,120, and130, embodiments of the present invention provide various configurations for creating a vertical-lift configured loader arm. In the above-described embodiments, however, the actuators used to raise and lower the loader arms (e.g.,rotary actuator108 orlinear actuators128,138) are not simultaneously secured to both the frame and the loader arms. For instance, forloader100, therotary actuator108 is attached directly to theloader arm102 but is not attached to the frame. In some other embodiments, however, therotary actuator108 might be directly attached to the frame of theloader100. Forloaders120,130, on the other hand, thelinear actuators128,138 are directly attached to the frame, but not directly attached to theloader arm122,132.

Control System

As described previously, and as perhaps best illustrated inFIGS.26 and27, theloader10 may includecontrol station20 positioned at the rear of theloader10. Thecontrol station20 may include aplatform140 on which the operator can stand when operating the loader. Generally, theplatform140 will be secured to a lower portion of theframe12 of theloader10, such that the operator can comfortably reach thecontrol panel22 with the operator's hands. In some embodiments, theloader10 may include apresence sensor141 associated with theplatform140 and configured to determine if theplatform140 is currently supporting an operator (i.e., whether an operator is currently present on the platform140). Such apresence sensor141 may comprise an electronic position sensor, such an inductive proximity switch configured to be triggered by the weight of the operator present on theplatform140. Thus, theloader10 is configured to determine whether or not an operator is positioned on theplatform140. As will be discussed in more detail below, in some embodiments, certain operational features of theloader10 may be restricted if an operator is not present on theplatform140.

Thecontrol panel22 illustrated inFIGS.26 and27 may be part of an enhanced user interface and control system (“UICS”)142 that includes thecontrol panel22 and a plurality of control elements, such as buttons, switches, levers, joysticks, graphical display, etc., which collectively permit the operator to control operation of theloader10. In more detail, theUICS142 of theloader10 may comprise agraphic display144, one or more control elements145 (e.g., buttons, switches, etc.), anengine speed lever146, as well as one or more joystick controls148. As noted above, theU ICS142 is positioned at a rear of theloader10, such that an operator can stand at the rear of theloader10 to operate theloader10. Although the operator will normally stand on theplatform140 when operating theloader10, in some embodiments, theloader10 may be configured such that the operator can stand on the ground behind theloader10 and reach theUICS142 to control operation of theloader10.

Beginning with the joystick controls148, and with reference toFIG.27, theUICS142 may include a drive joystick148(a), which is configured to control actuation of the tracks40 (e.g., via thehydraulic motors50 and the sprockets44) for controlling overall movement (e.g., travel or drive movement) of theloader10. In more detail, the drive joystick148(a) may extend upward from thecontrol panel22, such that an operator may grasp and shift the drive joystick148(a) so as to cause a corresponding movement of theloader10. In more detail, as illustrated inFIG.28, a pilot control valve assembly150(a) may be secured to a bottom of the drive joystick148(a). In general, the pilot control valve assembly150(a) may be positioned below thecontrol panel22. The pilot control valve assemblies150(a) and (b) are generally configured to distribute hydraulic fluid to other components of the loader's10 hydraulic system based on inputs received on the joysticks148(a) and (b). As such, hydraulic lines may extend from the pilot control valve assembly150(a) to the hydraulic pump54 (which provides hydraulic power to thehydraulic motors50, such as perhaps via the hydrostatic transmission of the pump54) such that actuation of the drive joystick148(a) will manipulate the pilot control valve assembly150(a) in a manner that causes a required function of thehydraulic motors50 to cause actuation of thesprockets44 and tracks40, as well as overall movement of theloader10.

For example, shifting the drive joystick148(a) forward will cause the pilot control valve assembly150(a) to provide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to the hydraulic pump54 (and/or the hydrostatic transmission of the pump54) to provide hydraulic fluid to each of the left side and right sidehydraulic motors50 in a manner that will cause the left side andright side sprockets44 to rotate in a manner that correspondingly causes the left side and right side tracks40 to rotate in a forward direction. As a result, theloader10 will move forward. The amount by which the operator shifts the drive joystick148(a) forward may determine the speed by which theloader10 travels in the forward direction. Similarly, shifting the drive joystick148(a) rearward will cause the pilot control valve assembly150(a) to provide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to the hydraulic pump54 (and/or the hydrostatic transmission of the pump54) to provide hydraulic fluid to each of the left side and right sidehydraulic motors50 in a manner that will cause the left side andright side sprockets44 to rotate in a manner that correspondingly causes the left side and right side tracks40 to rotate in a rearward direction. As a result, theloader10 will move rearward. The amount by which the operator shifts the drive joystick148(a) rearward may determine the speed by which theloader10 travels in the rearward direction. Rotating the drive joystick148(a) clockwise (when viewing from above the control panel22) will cause the pilot control valve assembly150(a) to provide (i) a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to the hydraulic pump54 (and/or the hydrostatic transmission of the pump54) so as to provide hydraulic fluid to the left sidehydraulic motor50 to rotate theleft side sprocket44 in a manner to cause theleft side track40 to rotate in a forward direction, and (ii) a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to the hydraulic pump54 (and/or the hydrostatic transmission of the pump54) so as to provide hydraulic fluid to the right sidehydraulic motor50 to rotate theright side sprocket44 in a manner to cause theright side track40 to rotate in a rearward direction. As such, theloader10 will turn in a rightward direction. The amount by which the operator rotates the drive joystick148(a) clockwise may determine the speed or degree by which theloader10 turns rightward. Similarly, rotating the drive joystick148(a) counter-clockwise (when viewing from above the control panel22) will cause the pilot control valve assembly150(a) to provide (i) a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to the hydraulic pump54 (and/or the hydrostatic transmission of the pump54) so as to provide hydraulic fluid to the left sidehydraulic motor50 to rotate theleft side sprocket44 in a manner to cause theleft side track40 to rotate in a rearward direction, and (ii) a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to the hydraulic pump54 (and/or the hydrostatic transmission of the pump54) so as to provide hydraulic fluid to the right sidehydraulic motor50 to rotate theright side sprocket44 in a manner to cause theright side track40 to rotate in a forward direction. As such, theloader10 turns in a leftward direction. The amount by which the operator rotates the drive joystick148(a) counter-clockwise may determine the speed or degree by which theloader10 turns leftward.

TheUICS142 may additionally include a loader arm & attachment (“LA&A”) joystick148(b) for controlling actuation of the loader arms16 (e.g., raising and lowering) and various hydraulically-operated functions of theattachment18 that may be supported on the front of theloader arms16. For example, the hydraulically-operated functions may include a tilt function for buckets (e.g., as caused by a tilt actuator, such as thehydraulic tilt cylinder151 illustrated inFIG.14) or auxiliary hydraulic functions for other hydraulically-operatedattachments18 such as, e.g., bit rotation of a drill, bit actuation of a jack-hammer, rotation of a blade for a saw, rotation of multiple blades for a rotary cutter, brush rotation of a sweeper, etc. In more detail, as shown inFIGS.26 and27, the LA&A joystick148(b) may extend upward from thecontrol panel22, such that an operator may grasp and shift the LA&A joystick148(b) so as to cause a corresponding movement of theloader arms16 and/or the associatedattachment18. As illustrated inFIG.28, a pilot control valve assembly150(b) may be secured to a bottom of the LA&A joystick148(b). In general, the pilot control valve assembly150(b) may be positioned below thecontrol panel22. Hydraulic lines may extend from the pilot control valve assembly150(b) to thehydraulic pump54 which provides hydraulic power to the actuators76 (e.g., hydraulic cylinders) associated with each of theloader arms16, such that actuation of the LA&A joystick148(b) will manipulate the pilot control valve assembly150(b) in a manner that causes a corresponding raising/lowering of theloader arms16. For example, shifting the LA&A joystick148(b) forward will cause the pilot control valve assembly150(b) to provide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to thehydraulic pump54 so as to provide hydraulic fluid to/from each of the left side andright side actuators76 in a manner that will cause the left side and rightside loader arms16 to lower. Similarly, shifting the LA&A joystick148(b) rearward will cause the pilot control valve assembly150(b) to provide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to thehydraulic pump54 so as to provide hydraulic fluid to/from each of the left side andright side actuators76 in a manner that will cause the left side and rightside loader arms16 to raise.

In addition, the LA&A joystick148(b) may include one or more control elements (e.g., buttons or switches) to facilitate control of the various hydraulic functionalities of theattachments18 supported on the forward end of theloader arms16. For example, as show inFIG.26, the LA&A joystick148(b) may include a float button152(a) configured to permit the loader arms16 (or the hitch pins68 or theattachment18 attached to the front of the loader arms16) to float along undulating ground terrain. Selection of the float button152(a) by the operator, will send a signal to open a float control valve that provides a path for fluid in the loader arms to vent to the loader's10 hydraulic tank in a manner that will cause the left side and right side loader arms16 (or the hitch pins68 or theattachment18 attached to the front of the loader arms16) to remain at a specified height above the ground regardless of whether the ground is uneven, undulating, etc. As a result, the attachment18 (or the hitch pins68 or theattachment18 attached to the front of the loader arms16) being supported by theloader arms16 will “float” above and/or within the ground during operation and/or movement of theloader10. Stated differently, theloader arms16, the associatedattachment18, and/or the hitch pins68 will follow the contour of the ground over which theloader10 is travelling. If theloader arms16 are in the raised position and the float button152(a) is selected, theloader arms16 will lower until the loader arms16 (and the attachment associated therewith) are positioned at the specified height and/or are floating along the contour of the ground, where they will remain during operation of theloader10 until the operator further shifts the LA&A148(b) joystick to change the height of theloader arms16. Specifically, once theloader arms16 are provided in the float configuration, theloader arms16 will remain in such float configuration until the float button152(a) is selected for a second, consecutive time or until theloader arms16 are raised by the operator shifting the LA&A148(b) joystick (e.g., shifting the LA&A148(b) joystick in a rearward direction).

The LA&A joystick148(b) can further include one or more auxiliary buttons152(b) for activating the auxiliary hydraulic functions of the attachment (if applicable) associated with theloader10. In some embodiments, the LA&A joystick148(b) will include two auxiliary buttons152(b), as illustrated inFIGS.11 and13. In some embodiments, the auxiliary buttons152(b) will be configured to activate the hydraulic functions of theattachment18 in either an “On-Demand” mode or a “Continuous” mode. When in the On-Demand mode, selection (e.g., depressing) of one of the auxiliary buttons152(b) will cause the hydraulic auxiliary functions of theattachment18 to operate. Releasing the same auxiliary button152(b) will cause the hydraulic auxiliary functions of theattachment18 to halt operation. In embodiments in which theattachment18 is a bucket, the selection (e.g., depressing) of one of the auxiliary buttons152(b) may cause the bucket to tilt downward (via actuation of the tilt actuator151), while selection (e.g., depressing) of the other auxiliary button152(b) operate may cause the bucket to tilt upward (via actuation of the tilt actuator151). In contrast, in other embodiments, the auxiliary buttons152(b) may be configured in a “Continuous” mode, whereby the hydraulic auxiliary functions of theattachment18 begin operating upon selection of (e.g., depressing) one of the auxiliary buttons152(b) and continue functioning until the operator selects (e.g., depresses) the same auxiliary button152(b) a second, consecutive time.

In more detail, when in the On-Demand mode, selection of a first auxiliary button152(b) may cause the pilot control valve assembly150(b) to provide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to thehydraulic pump54 so as to provide hydraulic fluid to theattachment18 flowing in a first flow direction such that the hydraulic auxiliary functions of theattachment18 are operated in a first direction (e.g., forward, clockwise, etc.). When the operator releases the first auxiliary button152(b), the pilot control valve assembly150(b) will provide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to thehydraulic pump54 to stop providing hydraulic fluid to theattachment18 such that the hydraulic auxiliary functions of theattachment18 are halted. Correspondingly, when in the On-Demand mode, selection of a second auxiliary button152(b) may cause the pilot control valve assembly150(b) to provide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to thehydraulic pump54 so as to provide hydraulic fluid to flow to theattachment18 in a second flow direction such that the hydraulic functions of the attachment are operated in a second, opposite direction (e.g., reverse, counter-clockwise, etc.). When the operator releases the second auxiliary button152(b), the pilot control valve assembly150(b) will provide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to thehydraulic pump54 to stop providing hydraulic fluid to theattachment18 such that the hydraulic auxiliary functions of theattachment18 are halted.

As was described above, when in the Continuous mode, selection of the first auxiliary button152(b) may cause the pilot control valve assembly150(b) to provide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to thehydraulic pump54 so as to provide hydraulic fluid to theattachment18 flowing in a first flow direction such that the hydraulic auxiliary functions of theattachment18 are operated in the first direction (e.g., forward, clockwise, etc.). The hydraulic fluid will continue flowing to theattachment18 in the first direction, such that theattachment18 continues operating in the first direction until the operator selects the first auxiliary button152(b) for a subsequent, second time. As a result, the pilot control valve assembly150(b) will provide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to thehydraulic pump54 to stop providing hydraulic fluid to theattachment18 such that the hydraulic auxiliary functions of theattachment18 are halted. Correspondingly, when in the Continuous mode, selection of the second auxiliary button152(b) may cause the pilot control valve assembly150(b) to provide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to thehydraulic pump54 so as to provide hydraulic fluid to flow to theattachment18 in the second flow direction such that the hydraulic functions of the attachment are operated in the second, opposite direction (e.g., reverse, counter-clockwise, etc.). The hydraulic fluid will continue flowing to theattachment18 in the second direction, such that theattachment18 continues operating in the second direction until the operator selects the second auxiliary button152(b) for a subsequent, second time. As a result, the pilot control valve assembly150(b) will provide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to thehydraulic pump54 to stop providing hydraulic fluid to theattachment18 such that the hydraulic auxiliary functions of theattachment18 are halted.

In some embodiments, theUICS142 may permit the operator to change the functionality of the auxiliary buttons152(b) between the On-Demand mode and the Continuous mode via thegraphic display144 and/or the associatedcontrol elements145, as will described in more detail below.

In some embodiments, theloader10 may include proportional valves associated with each of the auxiliary buttons152(b). Such proportional valves may be included within the pilot control valve assembly150(b) or they may be included in the LA&A joystick148(b) or a separate hydraulic control component. The proportional valves are configured to provide hydraulic fluid to theattachment18 in an amount proportional to the magnitude of the depression of the auxiliary buttons152(b). It is understood that increasing the amount of hydraulic fluid to theattachment18 will increase the operating capabilities (e.g., power or speed) of the auxiliary functions being performed by theattachment18.

For example, it may not be preferable to provide a maximum amount of hydraulic fluid to theattachment18 upon any magnitude of depression of the auxiliary buttons152(b). As such, the use of proportional valves may allow the amount of hydraulic fluid to theattachment18 to vary (e.g., linearly) based on the magnitude of the depression. The ratio of the magnitude of depression of the auxiliary buttons152(b) and the amount of hydraulic fluid provided to theattachment18 may be defined by a scaling factor. In some embodiments, theUICS142 may permit the operator to change the scaling factor, as necessary. Furthermore, in some embodiments, each of the auxiliary buttons152(b) may have a deadband depression level, whereby depressing the auxiliary buttons152(b) beyond the deadband depression level cause the pilot control valve assembly150(b) to provide a control signal (via the hydraulic lines) to thehydraulic pump54 to stop providing hydraulic fluid to theattachment18 such that the hydraulic auxiliary functions of theattachment18 are halted For example, in some embodiments, the deadband depression level can be set at 70% of the maximum depression level. As such, depressing one or both the auxiliary buttons152(b) more than 70% will halt the hydraulic auxiliary functions of theattachment18. However, depressing the auxiliary buttons152(b) between 0 and 70% will cause theattachments18 to operate at between 0 and 100% of the maximum operating capabilities of theattachment18 depending on the scaling factor set by the operator. In some additional embodiments, when in the Continuous mode, the auxiliary buttons152(b) will need to be depressed at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 35%, at least 40%, at least 45%, or at least 50% before the hydraulic auxiliary function of theattachment18 is initiated.

Turning to thegraphic display144 of theUICS142 in more detail, thegraphic display144 may comprise an electronic display, such as a cathode ray tube, liquid crystal display, plasma, or touch screen that is operable to display visual graphics, images, text, etc. In some embodiments, thegraphic display144 may be configured to display colored information. In certain embodiments, theloader10 may include a control system that controls the UICS142 (including the graphic display144) and various other functions and features of theloader10. The control system may include one or more memory elements, such as non-transitory computer readable media and/or firmware, with a computer program stored thereon. The control system may also include one or more processing elements, such as processors, CPUs, FPGAs, etc., which are configured to execute the computer program to perform various functions and features of theloader10. It should be understood that certain of the loader's10 functions and features discussed above and below are performed by execution of the computer program by the processing elements.

For example, the control system may be configured to (by the processing elements executing the computer program stored on the memory elements) (i) obtain information from various components of the loader10 (e.g., via sensors, actuators, timers, clocks, etc.) so as to present such information to the operator via thegraphic display144, and (ii) receive instructions from the operator (e.g., via thegraphic display144, thecontrol elements145, theengine speed lever146, and/or the joysticks148) to control various operations of theloader10. For example, the control system may permit thegraphic display144 to present various graphical user interfaces (GUIs) that provides information to the operator and/or that facilitate interaction and control of theloader10 by the operator. In embodiments in which thegraphic display144 is a touchscreen, the GUIs enable the operator to interact with theloader10 by touching or pointing at display areas of the GUI. In some other embodiments, the operator will interact with the GUIs and/or the loader by manipulating thecontrol elements145 that are associated with thegraphic display144.

FIGS.29-32 present various GUIs, which embodiments allow to be displayed via thegraphic display144, and which provide information to the operator and/or that allow the operator to control various functions of theloader10. Such GUIs enhance the operator's control of theloader10. For example, as shown inFIG.29, thegraphic display144 of theUICS142 may present a Login Screen, which prompts the operator for a passcode before theloader10 can be started or operated. The Login Screen may be activated upon a master switch154 (SeeFIGS.26 and27) of theUICS142 being activated. Such activation of themaster switch154 may provide for electrical power to be supplied from an electrical power source (e.g., a 12 Volt battery) of theloader10 to the graphic display144 (and to various other components of theloader10, such as the control system). It should be noted that themaster switch154 may be deactivated so as to electrically disconnect the various components of theloader10 from the electrical power source. In some embodiments, deactivation of themaster switch154 may also turn off the engine52 (if the engine is on). In some embodiments, theloader10 may include a power time-out, whereby if themaster switch154 is activated but the engine is not started within a pre-established timeframe (e.g., 30 minutes) from themaster switch154 activation, themaster switch154 is automatically deactivated. Bothengine52 shutdown and the switch turned on resets the power time-out timer.

Returning to the Login Screen, the operator is prompted to enter a passcode, which must be validated before operating theloader10. The passcode may be a numeric, alphabetic, and/or alphanumeric code, such as 4 or 6-digit code. Such a passcode may be entered via the associated control elements145 (SeeFIGS.26 and27) or directly via thegraphic display144 in embodiments in which thegraphic display144 is a touchscreen. Embodiments provide for theloader10 to be associated with one or more passcodes associated with various types of user accounts (e.g., operator accounts, owner account, and master account). For example, eachloader10 may include a plurality of operator accounts, which can each be created for an individual operator that may require use of theloader10 for normal operations. Each operator may be assigned his/her own unique passcode to access his/her operator account. In addition, the owner of the loader10 (which may be a business entity) may have an owner account which can manage each of the operator accounts. The owner account may have its own passcode with which to access various functions and features of theloader10. For example, an owner may use the owner account to establish, recover, change, or delete each of the operator accounts and associated passcodes (i.e., operator accounts may not be permitted to create, re-set, or recover their own passcodes). In addition, some other specific functions and features of theloader10 may only be accessed and changed via the owner account. Such specific functions and features may include the resetting of service/maintenance reminders and warning alerts, which are discussed in more detail below. Furthermore, theloader10 may be associated with a master account, which may be used to recover the owner account passcode, if necessary. The master account may be established by the manufacturer of theloader10. In some embodiments, the master account passcode may not be changed. In some embodiments, when changing passcodes (e.g., when the owner account is used to change the passcode for an operator account), embodiments may provide for the new passcode to be randomly generated.

In some embodiments, the Login Screen may also present other relevant information of theloader10, such as current number of engine hours operated by theloader10, current fuel level, etc. Before successful entry of a passcode, various functions and features of theloader10 may be disabled. However, successful entry of the passcode (e.g., at the Login Screen) may unlock one or more additional functions and features of theUICS142, or of theloader10 more generally. For example, as shown inFIG.30, successful entry of the passcode may allow thegraphic display144 to present a GUI in the form of an Operations Screen that presents various operational information of theloader10 to the operator. The Operations Screen may also present indications of available functions of theloader10 that the operator may carry out. Such available functions indicated on the Operations Screen may be selected via associatedcontrol elements145 or through thegraphic display144 itself (e.g., via touchscreen). For example, the operator may be able to start theengine52 of theloader10 by actuating acontrol element145 associated with aSTART icon156 of the Operations Screen. In some embodiments, upon successful entry of the operator's passcode at the Login Screen, theloader10 will activate the fuel pump for a pre-established timeframe (e.g., 1 minute), such that the operator will be required start theengine52 within the pre-established timeframe or the Login Screen will be re-displayed and the operator will be required to successfully re-enter the passcode.

The Operations Screen may have multiple versions depending on the state of theloader10. For instance, the Operations Screen shown inFIG.30 may be presented after a successful entry of the operator's password but prior to theengine52 of theloader10 being started. As such, theSTART icon156 is presented on the Operations Screen indicative of the operator's ability to start theengine52. The Operations Screen may additionally display aMENU icon158, which when selected via the associatedcontrol elements145 or through thegraphic display144 itself (e.g., touchscreen) will cause thegraphic display144 to display a Menu Screen, which is discussed in more detail below. The Operations Screen may additionally display aWork Light icon160, which when selected via the associatedcontrol elements145 or through thegraphic display144 itself (e.g., touchscreen) will cause the loader's10 work lights to toggle on and off. When the work lights are on, theWork Light icon160 may be highlighted with a color (e.g., blue), whereas when the work lights are off, theWork Light icon160 may not have a highlighted color (e.g., theWork Light icon160 may be uncolored or colored gray).

Furthermore, the Operations Screen may additionally display aGlow Plugs icon162, which when selected via the associatedcontrol elements145 or through thegraphic display144 itself (e.g., touchscreen) will cause the loader's10 glow plugs to toggle on and off. Such glow plugs may be used to pre-heat theengine52 in preparation for starting theengine52. Activating the glow plugs (e.g., via thecontrol elements145 or touchscreen) may activate the glow plugs for a pre-selected time period (e.g., 5 seconds). Re-activating the glow plugs (e.g., by re-selecting thecontrol elements145 or touchscreen) may add another pre-selected time period (e.g., 5 seconds) to the glow plug activation. In some embodiments, the glow plugs may only be activated and/or re-activated (e.g., by selecting thecontrol elements145 or touchscreen) six consecutive times so as to limit the total active duration to a maximum “on-time time-limit.” For example, in embodiments in which the pre-selected time period is five seconds, the maximum on-time time-limit of the glow plugs will be thirty seconds (i.e., 5×6=30). However, in some embodiments, after the glow plug activation time has reached the maximum on-time time-limit, the operator may be able to reactivate the glow plugs if necessary. When the glow plugs are on, theGlow Plug icon162 may be highlighted with a color (e.g., green), whereas when the glow plugs are off, theGlow Plug icon162 may not have a highlighted color (e.g., theGlow Plug icon162 may uncolored or may be colored gray).

In addition to the above, and remaining with the Operations Screen ofFIG.30, embodiments provide for the Operations Screen to display other types of information related to theloader10. For example, the Operations Screen may display a Temperature Gauge configured to present information indicative of a temperature of the engine52 (such as may be obtained from a temperature sensor associated with the engine52). In some embodiments, the Temperature Gauge may present information indicative of a temperature of the coolant used by theengine52. The Temperature Gauge may present relative values of theengine52 temperature or may present digital values (e.g., in Fahrenheit or Celsius). The Operations Screen may also present a Temperature Warning icon, which may be a warning alert that is activated to a highlighted color (e.g., red) when theengine52 temperature exceeds a specified threshold (e.g., “210” degrees Fahrenheit). In contrast, when the engine temperature is below the specified threshold, the Temperature Warning icon may not be visible or it may not have a highlighted color (e.g., the Temperature Warning icon may be uncolored or may be colored gray). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the Temperature Warning icon may flash when theengine52 temperature exceeds a maximum specified threshold (e.g., “220” degrees Fahrenheit), so as to indicate to the operator that theloader10 may be overheating. In some embodiments, when theengine52 temperature has exceeded a maximum specified threshold, theengine52 may automatically be shut off by the loader's control system.

The Operations Screen may also display a Fuel Gauge configured to present information indicative of the fuel level of theloader10. For instance, theengine52 of theloader10 may operate on diesel fuel, such that theloader10 includes a fuel tank for supplying fuel (via a fuel pump) to theengine52. In some embodiments, the Fuel Gauge may present relative values (e.g., a percentage of a full fuel tank) or may present digital values (e.g., a number of gallons). The Operations Screen may also present a Fuel Warning icon is activated to a highlighted color (e.g., red) when the fuel level falls below a specified threshold (e.g., below ten percent full), whereas when the fuel level is above the specified threshold, the Fuel Warning icon may not be visible or it may not have a highlighted color (e.g., the Fuel Warning icon may uncolored or may be colored gray). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the Fuel Warning icon may flash when the fuel level falls below a minimum specified threshold (e.g., below five percent full), so as to indicate to the operator that theloader10 may soon run out of fuel and needs to be re-filled. The fuel level may be read from a fuel level sensor (e.g., a float sensor) located within, or otherwise associated with, the fuel tank of theloader10. In some embodiments, the data obtained from the fuel level sensor may be averaged so as to avoid any erroneous readings that may result when theloader10 is operating on an incline or over undulating terrain. In addition, each time themaster switch156 is turned on, the average value of the fuel level sensor data may be reset to a starting average equal to an instantaneous value of the fuel level so as to prevent any lag in immediately reading the fuel level.

The Operations Screen may also display RPM data indicative of the current rotations per minute (RPMs) of theengine52. In some embodiments, the RPM data may be presented as a digital value (e.g., a number rotations per minute). The RPM data will generally only show values when theengine52 has been turned on and is running. The RPMs of theengine52 may be increased and decreased by the operator's actuation of theengine speed lever146. For example, pushing thelever146 forward may increase the RPMs of theengine52, while pulling thelever146 rearward may decrease the RPMs of theengine52.

Furthermore, the Operations Screen may display Engine Hour data indicative of the total number of hours theengine52 has operated. In some embodiments, the Engine Hour data may be obtained from a timer activated when theengine52 is turned on. The Engine Hour data may be presented as a digital value (e.g., a number hours). The Operations Screen may also display Power Source data indicative of the current voltage of the loader's10 electrical power source (e.g., a 12 Volt battery). The Power Source data may be obtained from a voltmeter associated with the loader's10 power source. In some embodiments, the Power Source data may be presented as a digital value (e.g., a number Volts). In certain embodiments, the Power Source data may be highlighted a particular color (e.g., red) or may flash if the power level of the loader's power source falls below a pre-selected value (e.g., the pre-selected value may be 11.5 Volts when theengine52 is on and 13.0 Volts when the engine is off). In additional embodiments, the Operations Screen may further present Clock data indicative of the time of day.

In certain embodiments, the Operations Screen may provide various other indicators and alerts for the operator. For example, the Operations Screen may present anOperator Presence icon163 indicative of whether or not the operator is positioned on theplatform140. Such a determination may be made by thepresence sensors141, which was previously described. TheOperator Presence icon163 may be highlighted with a red color by default when an operator is not positioned on and supported by theplatform140. However, theOperator Presence icon163 may be changed to a green color when thepresence sensor141 associated with theplatform140 indicates that the operator is positioned on and supported by the platform140 (i.e., the weight of the operator forces theplatform140 downward, triggering the presence sensor141). In some embodiments, a buffer period (e.g., one second) may be used when analyzing data obtained from thepresence sensor141 so as to ensure that thepresence sensor141 does not inadvertently indicate that an operator is not on theplatform140 in cases of bouncing or shaking of the loader10 (such as may cause the operator's weight to momentarily shift upward away from the platform140). As will be described in more detail below, certain components of the hydraulic system of theloader10 may not be operated when an operator is not present on theplatform140. Thus, the buffer period prevents problems with certain hydraulic functions of theloader10 being disabled if theloader10 drives over undulating terrain causing thepresence sensor141 to improperly indicate (even for short, impulse moment) that the operator is not present on theplatform140. However, as will be described in more detail below, in some embodiments, theloader10 will include an override feature that permits certain hydraulic functions to be used even when an operator is not present on the platform140 (e.g., when the operator is standing or walking behind or beside the loader10).

The Operations Screen may also present a Service Required icon, which functions as a service reminder if theloader10 is due (or is overdue) for services or maintenance to be performed. Examples of such services or maintenance include replacement of air filter, replacement ofengine52 oil and filter, tension adjustment of fan belt, check and/or replace fuel filter, replacement of hydraulic oil and filter, replacement of hydraulic tank breather, engine coolant replacement, etc. Embodiments provide for each of the service reminders to have individualized time periods or operational periods. For instance, theengine52 oil and filter may require replacement every two hundredengine52 hours. Thus, after two hundredengine52 hours, the Service Required icon may be activated indicating that theengine52 oil and filter need to be replaced. However, other service reminders may be based on standard time periods, such as fan belts needing to be replaced after one year. As was described previously, the owner of the loader10 (via use of the owner's password) may reset (i.e., deactivate) the Service Required icon upon the service/maintenance being performed (e.g., after theengine52 oil and filter being changed and/or the fan belt being replaced). The individualized time periods or operational periods within which the services are required to be performed (i.e., before activation of the Service Required icon) may also be set using the owner account. As such, the operator account may not, in some embodiments, be used to re-set the Service Reminder icon or to establish the individualized time periods or operational periods for the service reminders.

In addition to the service reminders, the Operations Screen may provide other indications, such as warning alerts, in instances where theloader10 is experiencing a problem malfunction. For example, the Operations Screen present a warning alert in the form of an Air Cleaner Warning icon (e.g., highlighted in the color red) when the loader's10 air filter/cleaner is sensed to be restricted (e.g., via an air cleaner restriction sensor associated with the loader's air filter/cleaner). Similarly, the Operations Screen may provide a warning alert in the form of a Low Engine Oil Pressure Warning icon upon theloader10 experiencing a drop inengine52 oil pressure. In addition to the Low Engine Oil Pressure Warning icon, the Operations Screen may present the statement “WARNING: LOW OIL PRESSURE. When safe, shutdown immediately to avoid engine damage,” if theengine52 oil pressure is sensed (e.g., via an oil pressure sensor associated with the engine52) to have dropped below a normal operating pressure while theengine52 is running. If thelow engine52 oil pressure is sensed for a pre-established time period (e.g., six seconds), embodiments provides for the loader's10 control system to automatically shutdown theengine52. In addition, the Operations Screen may present a new message stating “Engine auto-shutdown due to low oil pressure.” This new message may remain on the Operations Screen until the operator selects a control element145 (or the touchscreen) acknowledging thelow engine52 oil pressure.

In certain embodiments, once theengine52 of theloader10 has been started, the Operations Screen may present different information or may permit the operator to perform different functions. For example, as illustrated inFIG.31, the Operations Screen may include aSTOP icon164 in place of theSTART icon156. In a similar manner, however, the operator can select the STOP icon164 (e.g., via thecontrol elements145 and/or touchscreen), so as to cause theengine52 to turn off. Specifically, the selection of theSTOP icon164 may cause the fuel pump to stop providing fuel to theengine52, so that theengine52 stops. Once theengine52 is turned off, or alternatively, once themaster switch154 is turned off, once theengine52 stalls, and/or once the engine's 50 RPMs fall below a pre-defined threshold, the Operations Screen may revert to the version of the Operations Screen illustrated inFIG.30.

Remaining withFIG.31, the Operations Screen additionally presents the operator with the option of initializing the hydraulic system of theloader10 once theengine52 has been started. For example, the Operations Screen may present aHydraulic System icon166, which when selected (e.g., via acontrol element145 and/or touchscreen), activates certain functions of the loader's10 hydraulic systems. For purposes of the present description, the hydraulic system of theloader10 is generally grouped into performing the following functions: Drive Functions, Loader Functions, and Attachment Functions. However, it should be understood that such a listing is exemplary, and the hydraulic system of theloader10 may perform other functions. The Drive Functions correspond to the movement of the loader10 (e.g., forward, rearward, and turning), such as caused by thehydraulic pump54 providing power (e.g., via the hydrostatic transmission) to thehydraulic motors50. The Loader Functions correspond to the movement of the loader arms16 (e.g., raising and lowering), such as caused by thehydraulic pump54 providing power to theactuators76. The Attachment Functions correspond to the various functionalities of anattachment18 supported by the loader arms16 (e.g., bucket tilt, hydraulic auxiliary functions, float functions, etc.), such as caused by thehydraulic pump54 providing power to the attachment18 (or to theloader arms16 in case of the float functions). When theHydraulic System icon166 is deactivated, the icon may not be highlighted with a color (e.g., may not be visible or may be colored gray) and/or may include a locked mechanical lock icon (SeeFIG.31), so as to indicate to the operator that the loader's10 hydraulic systems are not activated. In contrast, once theHydraulic System icon166 has been selected and the hydraulic systems are activated, theHydraulic System icon166 may highlighted with a color (e.g., green) and/or may include an unlocked mechanical lock indicator, as to indicate the operator that theloader10 that the hydraulic systems are at least partially activated.

For example, upon selection of the Hydraulic System icon166 (with theengine52 running), the loader's10 hydraulic system may be permitted to provide operating power to the components of theloader10 to facilitate Drive Functions and Loader Functions. In such instance, stopelement59 of theloader10 may be retracted, such that the operator can maneuver theloader10. The Operations Screen may present the message “Park brake will disengage. Drive and loader controls will be enabled. Operate with extreme caution.” In some embodiments, however, theengine52 may be required to be operating below a pre-established RPM level (e.g., less than 1500 RPMs) before the hydraulic system can be activated. If the engine's 52 RPMS are greater than the pre-established RPM level, the Operations Screen may present the message: “Reduce engine speed to less than 1500 RPM.” The engine speed may be reduced via actuation of theengine speed lever146.

In some embodiments, the hydraulic system of theloader10 may only be unlocked if the operator is present on the platform140 (e.g., as determined by thepresence sensor141 previously described, and as indicated on the Operations Screen by Operator Presence icon163). However, in other embodiments, theUICS142 may include an override (e.g., acontrol element145, touchscreen, or a separate element of the UICCS142), which when selected, permits the hydraulic system of theloader10 to be activated and used by the operator when the operator is not positioned on the platform140 (e.g., when the operator is standing or walking behind or beside the loader10). In certain embodiments, the override will only permit the Drive Functionality and the Loader Functionality of the hydraulic system to be operational. In certain embodiments, the override will be turned off if theengine52 shuts down, if the hydraulic system is toggled off by the operator, and/or if the operator becomes present on the platform140 (so that the override is not necessary).

If the operator does become present on theplatform140 of the loader10 (and with theengine52 started and the hydraulic system activated), additional hydraulic functionality may be activated.FIG.32 illustrates an Operations Screen whereby theHydraulic System icon166 is illustrated as being unlocked. In such instances, the Attachment Functions of theloader10, such as the attachment's auxiliary hydraulic functions and the float functionality, may be made operational. In more detail, once the loader's10 hydraulic system has been activated (with the operator present on the platform140), the float and the hydraulic auxiliary functions of the attachments may be operable such that the operator can control such functions via the LA&A joystick148(b), as was previously described. In some embodiments, with theengine52 started, with the operator present on theplatform140, and with the hydraulic system activated, the Operations Screen may present anAuxiliary Hold icon168, as illustrated inFIG.32. By default, theAuxiliary Hold icon168 will be deactivated, which is indicative of the hydraulic auxiliary functions being set to On-Demand mode (SeeFIG.32). TheAuxiliary Hold icon168 may be not be highlighted (e.g., not visible or colored gray) when not activated. Selecting the Auxiliary Hold icon168 (e.g., via one of thecontrol elements145 or touchscreen) will permit the Continuous mode of the auxiliary hydraulic functions to be activated. When activated, theAuxiliary Hold icon168 may be highlighted (e.g., with a green color) and may include a plurality of circularly arranged arrows, as illustrated inFIG.33.

As is shown in each of the Operations Screens30-33, theUICS142 may present theMenu icon158, which when selected, presents a Menu Screen that permits the operator to perform various administrative functions for theloader10 and/or displayvarious loader10 related information. For example, the Menu Screen may permit the operator to view, change/update, and/or re-set the loader's10 settings, service reminders, safety alerts, and loader specifications, passwords, software, etc. The settings of theloader10 may allow the operator to display and/or change one or more of the following: language displayed on the UICS142 (e.g., English, Spanish, etc.), machine serial number, software version, etc. As was previously described, in some embodiments, an owner account may be required to change or update passcodes for an operator account. As was noted previously, theloader10 may have multiple operators associated with theloader10, with each having their own unique operator account and/or passcode. The owner account may individually view and change passwords for each operator. In some embodiments, the owner account (or the master account) may also disable passcode requirements, such that theloader10 can be started and operated without a passcode being entered via theUICS142. In addition, as was noted previously, a master account may be required to view or change the passcode for an owner. In certain embodiments, from the settings, the owner may (via the owner account) view and/or change the scaling factor used by the auxiliary buttons152(b) of the FA&A joystick148(b). In some embodiments, the settings may allow the operator or the owner to view the software version currently used on theloader10. The software may be updated wirelessly (e.g., WiFi, Bluetooth, or cellular) or via wired connection (e.g., USB, memory card, etc.). In certain embodiments, an owner account may be required to update the software of theloader10.

Selecting the service reminders from the Menu Screen may permit the operator to reset the loader's10 service reminders (e.g., air filter, fuel filter, oil filter replacement, etc.), such as after the appropriate services have been performed. In some embodiments, as was described previously, an owner account may be required to reset or to define the service reminders. Selecting the safety alerts from the Menu Screen may present any Warnings Alerts (e.g., low oil pressure) that theloader10 is currently experiencing (or has experienced in the past). In some embodiments, the owner account may be required to reset any existing Warning Alerts. Finally, selecting theloader10 specifications from the Menu Screen may displayvarious loader10 specifications to the operator, such as fluid capacities, oil types, filter models, etc.

Finally, turning toFIGS.26 and27, theUICS142 includes thecontrol panel22 on which thejoysticks148,graphic display144, and controlelements145 are located. In some embodiments, thecontrol panel22 may be pivotally connected with theframe12 of theloader10, such that thecontrol panel22 can pivot or rotate upward. With thecontrol panel22 pivoted upward, as illustrated inFIG.34, access is provided to certain internal components located underneath thecontrol panel22. For example, upward rotation of thecontrol panel22 can allow access to the pilot control valve assemblies158(a) and (b) extending from the joysticks148(a) and (b) on the opposite side of the control panel22 (as is perhaps best shown inFIG.28). Returning toFIG.34, aradiator170 and associatedfan172, which may be positioned below thecontrol panel22, may be accessed via theopen control panel22. Theradiator170 andfan172 are also shown inFIG.27. Accessing theradiator170 andfan172 from theopen control panel22 may facilitate quick and efficient addition of coolant to the radiator170 (e.g., viaradiator cap174 positioned on top of the radiator170). Theradiator170 andfan172 may comprise a frame or shroud that houses interior components of theradiator170 andfan172. As shown inFIG.34, the frame or shroud may comprise anaccess port176 that is accessible from theopen control panel22 and that allows a user to introduce a pressurized air nozzle into the frame or shroud for cleaning theradiator170 and/orfan172, such as for blowing out debris from fins of theradiator170. Specifically, thisaccess port176 is accessible upon thecontrol panel22 being rotated upward and permits the user to insert a pressurized air hose and/or nozzle into theaccess port174 to blow out theradiator170.

Recap of Certain Loader Embodiments

As described in the above description, embodiments of the present invention include aloader10 that provides various benefits over prior art loaders. For example, theloader10 may include a generally T-shapedframe12, which permits at least a portion thetracks40 to extend underneath at least a portion of the loader's10frame12. Such a configuration allows theloader10 to be formed with a relatively narrow overall width W1, but to also includeoversized tracks40. Benefits of this configuration include increased maneuverability and a more even distribution of the loader's10 load and weight onto the ground surface.

In addition, theloader10 CUL may include taperedconical sprockets44 extending from the lateral sides (e.g., left side andright side30,32) of theframe12 of theloader10, which facilitates the ability of theloader10 to includeoversized tracks40 with the reduced-width frame12 (i.e., having the overall width W1). Thesprockets44 extend laterally outward from each of the left side andright side30,32 of theframe12 and are generally in operable connection with the hydraulic motors50 (with themotors50 being positioned in the interior compartment of theframe12, each being adjacent to one of the left side andright side30,32). Themotors50 are powered indirectly by an engine52 (e.g., via a hydrostatic transmission associated with the hydraulic pump54), with theengine52 being shifted rearward behind themotors50. Such rearward shifting of theengine52 facilitates the ability of theloader10 to have a reduced width because themotors50 are not required to be positioned directly to the lateral sides of theengine52. In some embodiments, themotors50 may still require sufficient spacing to permit theflywheel56 to be positioned between themotors50. Nevertheless, the configuration of theconical sprockets44 permits themotors50 of theloader10 to actuate theoversized tracks40 while theloader10 itself can maintain a reduced overall width W1. The rearward shifting of theengine52 also provides space for secondary, internal components of theloader10 to be positioned within the interior compartment presented inside theframe12 of theloader10. The rearward shifting of theengine52 further provides a rearward shifting of the loader's10 center of gravity (due to the high weight of the engine52), which improves load distribution and maneuverability of theloader10. For example, the center of gravity of theloader10 of embodiments of the present invention may be shifted rearward from the midpoint of the length of theloader10. Specifically, a distance from the front of theloader10 to the center of gravity forms a ratio of between 55:45 to 75:25, between 60:40 to 70:30, or about 65:35 with respect to a distance from the rear of theloader10 to the center of gravity. Stated differently, the center of gravity of theloader10 may be positioned about 15% of the overall length of theloader10 rearward from the midpoint of the loader's10 length.

As noted above, the rearward positioning of theengine52 also permits other internal components of theloader10 to be positioned within the interior compartment of theloader10 frame12 (forward of the engine52). Such components include the various elements of the loader's10 hydraulic system (e.g.,hydraulic pump54, hydraulic reservoir, hydraulic lines, etc.), fuel tank, fuel lines, hydraulic filter, fuel filter, water separator. Providing such components in the interior compartment of theframe12, forward of theengine52, improves access to such components for service and maintenance), as well as inhibits the chance of liquids and fluids spilling onto theengine52. In some embodiments, theloader10 will include the hood36 (which may be formed from plastic, fiberglass, or other similar material), which covers the internal components of theloader10 positioned within the internal space of theframe12. However, thehood36 may be hingedly attached theframe12, such that thehood36 can be raised to provide easy access to such components (e.g., for service and maintenance, re-filling fluids, etc.).

In some embodiments, theengine52 of theloader10 may incorporate a turbo, which provides for higher torque at a lower RPM. As such, theloader10 can incorporate the use of low-displacement motors50, which allow theloader10 have an increased speed at lower RPMs. In some embodiments, a maximum ground speed of the loader can be at least 4.8 MPH, at least 4.9 MPH, at least 5.0 MPH, at least 5.1 MPH, or at least 5.2 MPH. Such enhanced ground speed is provided even with a low horsepower rating of the loader's10engine52. For example, in some embodiments, theengine52 may have a horsepower rating of less than 50 horsepower, less than 40 horsepower, less than 30 horsepower, and/or less than 25 horsepower. The use of the turbo also permits the loader to operate with a generally low noise level. In addition, the shape of theloader10 frame12 (i.e., the T-shaped frame12) also functions to attenuate noise generated by theloader10. The use of a muffler and the hood36 (which may be made from plastic) may also function to reduce noise level of theloader10.

In additional embodiments, theloader10 may include an enhanced user interface and control system (i.e., UICS142), which includes several features that improve the ability of a user to operate and to receive information related to theloader10. TheUICS142 may be part of thecontrol station20, so as to be positioned at a rear of theloader10. As such, and operator can stand at and/or on the rear of theloader10 to operate theloader10. In more detail, theUICS142 may include agraphic display144 and one ormore control elements145 associated with the graphic display144 (e.g., user inputs, such as buttons or switches positioned below or otherwise adjacent to the graphic display144), which allow the operator to interact with the GUIs presented by thegraphic display144. In some embodiments, thegraphic display144 may comprise a touchscreen, such that thecontrol elements145 are not necessary to interact with the GUIs presented by thegraphic display144.

As was described above, theUICS142 may also include one ormore joystick148 type controls for controlling various functions and features of theloader10. Thegraphic display144 and thejoysticks148 may be supported on thecontrol panel22 so as to be accessible from above thecontrol panel22. In some embodiments, thecontrol panel22 may be configured to pivot upward, so as to provide access to internal components located at a rear of theloader10 and underneath thecontrol panel22. For example, theloader10 may include theradiator170 andfan172 positioned behind theengine52 and below thecontrol panel22. The ability of thecontrol panel22 to be pivoted upward allows access to theradiator170 andfan172 so as to, for example, add coolant to theradiator170. In additional embodiments, theradiator170 may be configured with a radiator frame or shroud with anaccess port176 that allows a user to introduce a pressurized air nozzle for cleaning (e.g., blowing out) fins of theradiator170. Such anaccess port176 may be positioned below thecontrol panel22, such that pivoting thecontrol panel22 permits the operator to insert the pressurized air nozzle into theaccess port176 to blow out theradiator170. In some embodiments, the operator may also access thefan172 and/or the fan belt (e.g., so as to adjust the tension of an alternator and/or fan belt or to replace the belt) upon thecontrol panel22 having been pivoted upward. In some additional embodiments, internal components of the loader's hydraulic system can be accessed upon the opening of thecontrol panel22. For instance, the pilot control valve assemblies150(a) and (b) (and hydraulic lines) associated with the joysticks148(a) and (b) may extend downward below thecontrol panel22, while the joysticks148(a) and (b) may extend upward from thecontrol panel22. As such, the pilot control valve assemblies150(a) and (b) (and hydraulic lines) may be accessed efficiently once thecontrol panel22 has been pivoted upward.

Embodiments provide for theloader10 to incorporate the use of thejoysticks148 due, in part, to the use of the pilot control valve assemblies150(a) and (b) (and hydraulic lines). In general, the pilot control valve assemblies150(a) and (b) can be used to separate a low-pressure side (the “low side”) of the loader's10 hydraulic system from a high-pressure side (the “high side”). Each of the joysticks148(a) and (b) may be operably connected with one of the pilot control valve assemblies150(a) and (b). The pilot control valve assemblies150(a) and (b) are, in turn, configured to generate and output hydraulic pressure to the high-pressure side (“high side”) components of the loader's10 hydraulic system. Such high side components may include, for instance, thehydraulic pump54, thehydraulic motors50 that actuate thetracks40, the actuators76 (e.g., hydraulic cylinders) that actuate theloader arms16, thetilt cylinder151 that actuates the attachment18 (e.g., a bucket cylinder for tiling a bucket attachment), and/or the hydraulic auxiliary components of theattachment18.

For example, theloader10 may include a drive joystick148(a) that can be used to control the motion of theloader10. As such, the drive joystick148(a) can be used to direct theloader10 in a forward direction, a rearward direction, to turn left, or to turn right. The drive joystick148(a) may extend upward from thecontrol panel22, such that a user may actuate the drive joystick148(a) to move theloader10. The pilot control valve assembly150(a) may be connected underneath the drive joystick148(a) and extend below thecontrol panel22. Hydraulic lines may extend from the pilot control valve assembly150(a) to thehydraulic pump54 that is connected to thehydraulic motors50 of the left-side and right-side tracks40. As such, actuation of the drive joystick148(a) will cause a corresponding actuation of theloader10tracks40 to cause movement of theloader10. The low side of the loader's10 hydraulic system may operate with hydraulic fluid that is pressurized to around 330 psi. This low pressurized hydraulic fluid is input to thepump54 as a control signal. The hydraulic pump54 (and/or the associated hydrostatic transmission) correspondingly outputs a high pressurized hydraulic fluid (e.g., about 4000 psi) to the high side of the loader's10 hydraulic system, and particularly to themotors50 to cause actuation of thesprockets44tracks40, and movement of theloader10.

Similarly, the LA&A joystick148(b) may be used to control movement of the loader arms16 (e.g., so as to raise and lower theattachment18 connected to the ends of the loader arms16) and/or to actuate theattachment18. Specifically, the LA&A joystick148(b) may include a pilot control valve assembly150(b) (and associated hydraulic lines) that operate using hydraulic fluid pressurized to about 330 psi. The pilot control valve assembly150(b) can be connected to (1) theactuators76 of theloader arms16, and/or (2) the hydraulic auxiliary components of theattachment18. The pilot control valve assembly150(b) may output hydraulic fluid to the highside loader arm16actuators76 and/ortilt cylinder151 at a pressure of around 3000 psi. The pilot control valve assembly150(b) may output hydraulic fluid to the high side auxiliary components of theattachment18 at a pressure of around 2800 psi.

In some embodiments, the LA&A joystick148(b) will control the loader arms16 (e.g., raising and lowering) by actuating the drive joystick148(a). In some of such embodiments, the LA&A joystick148(b) will include one or more auxiliary buttons152(b), which when depressed, will activate auxiliary functions of the attachment18 (if applicable). In addition, the LA&A joystick148(b) may include a float button152(a), which when depressed, permits theloader arms16 to float along the surface of the ground and follow the terrain, regardless of changes in terrain.

As described above, an operator may operate theloader10 from the rear of theloader10. For example, theloader10 may include theplatform140 positioned near a bottom, rear of theframe12. The operator may stand on theplatform140 to operate the loader (e.g., by actuating the components of the UICS142). In some embodiments, theplatform140 may include a presence sensor141 (e.g., an inductive proximity or pressure sensor), which is configured to deactivate certain components of the hydraulic system of theloader10 when the operator is not standing on theplatform140. For example, the low side pilotcontrol valve assembly150 may be disabled when an operator is not standing on theplatform140. In some additional embodiments, theloader10 may include an override function (e.g., accessible as a component of the UICS142) that allows certain of the loader's10 hydraulic systems to be operated (e.g., Drive Functionality and Loader Functionality) even when the operator is not standing on theplatform140. In some embodiments, thepresence sensor141 may be configured to deactivate components of the loader's10drive system14 when the operator is not present on theplatform140. For example, when the operator leaves theplatform140, thepresence sensor141 may send a signal to the loader's10 control system to engage thestop elements59 with thesprockets44 so as to prevent movement of theloader10.

Thegraphic display144 of theUICS142 also includes several features that enhance operation of theloader10. For example, thegraphic display144 may present a GUI in the form of a Login Screen, which requests that the operator enter a passcode (e.g., a numeric code, a textual code, alphanumeric code, etc.) for unlocking certain functions and features of the loader10 (including of the UICS142). For example, prior to entry of a valid passcode, certain of the loader's10 features may be disabled, such as certain “low side” components of the loader's hydraulic system (e.g., the drive joystick148(a) and/or LA&A joystick148(b)). Other features may also be disabled, such as the loader's10 work lights and glow plugs. Upon the operator entering a correct or valid passcode, additional features of theUICS142 may be unlocked, such as for instance, the ability for the operator to start theengine52 of the loader10 (e.g., using acontrol element145 or touchscreen). Thus, the operator may start theloader10 without a physical key. Similarly, the operator may turn off theengine52 of the loader without a physical key (e.g., using acontrol element145 or touchscreen). In some instances, upon successfully entering the passcode, the passcode may not need to be re-entered upon successive startups as long as such successive startups are performed within a predetermined period of time (e.g., 30 seconds).

In view of the above, certain embodiments of theloader10 may provide for theloader10 to include a keyless start mechanism configured to permit the loader10 (and/or the engine52) to be started without a physical key. Such keyless start mechanism may also be used to permit the loader10 (and/or the engine52) to be stopped without a physical key. In some embodiments, the keyless start mechanism will comprise thegraphic display144, which is configured to present operational information to the operator. As discussed above, thegraphic display144 is configured to present a Login Screen prompting the operator for a passcode, whereby theengine52 is prevented from being started until a valid passcode is entered via theUICS142. In some embodiments, the operator can enter the passcode via the plurality ofcontrol elements145, such that theengine52 of theloader10 can be started (and/or stopped) without a physical key. In other embodiments, thegraphic display144 may be a touchscreen, and the operator can enter the passcode via the touchscreen, such that theengine52 of theloader10 can be started (and/or stopped) without a physical key. In some further embodiments, theUICS142 may include an additional control element, such as a push button associated with thecontrol panel22. In such embodiments, the keyless start mechanism may comprise the push button, such that an operator can start (and/or stop) theengine52 of theloader10 without a physical key by depressing the push button (e.g., without requiring the input of a passcode).

Upon unlocking theUICS142 with a valid passcode, theloader10 may also permit power to be selectively distributed to the loader's10 hydraulic systems, work lights, glow plugs, etc. Specifically, the operator may use the graphic display144 (e.g., in conjunction with the associatedcontrol elements145 and/or the GUIs presented by the graphic display144) to selectively control the various functions and features of theloader10, such as: turning on/off the hydraulic system (e.g., including overriding the standard deactivation of the hydraulic system when a user is not positioned on the platform140), configuring the auxiliary hydraulic functions of theattachment18 in either the On-demand mode or the Continuous mode, setting the scaling factor used by the buttons152(a),(b) of the FA&A joystick148(b) (e.g., as may be necessary for proper use of the auxiliary hydraulic functions of the attachment18), to selectively engage or disengage the stop element59 (so as to functions as a parking break of the loader10), turn the lights of theloader10 on/off (in some embodiments the lights may be associated with a courtesy timer, such that the lights will remain on and will automatically shut off after a predetermined period of time has elapsed after theloader10 has been turned off), and passcode entry.

Thegraphic display144 may also be configured to present colored graphics, such as to present various types of operational information to the operator. Such operational information may include (as was described above): engine hours, fuel level, engine RPM, engine temperature, battery voltage, day/time. Thegraphic display144 may also present operational information in the form of service/maintenance reminders (e.g., air filter, fuel filter, oil filter replacement). Such reminders may be based on time (e.g., a daily/weekly/monthly/yearly timer), engine hours, or based on various sensor data received fromother loader10 sensors. For example, theloader10 air filter may be associated with a sensor (e.g., an airflow/pressure sensor) for indicating when the air filter is clogged and needs to be cleaned/replaced. Thegraphic display144 may also present information indicative of the status of the loader's hydraulic system, such as (i) when the loader's10 hydraulic system is activated, (ii) when theloader10 is in Continuous mode, and/or (iii) when theloader10 is in an On-Demand mode.

Furthermore, theloader10 includesloader arms16 that provide for vertical-lift operation with an extended reach. For example, when theloader10 is equipped with anattachment18 in the form of a bucket, theloader arms16 may raise the bucket to an extendable height of at least 84.7 inches and a forward reach of at least 28.3 inches (measured from tangent ofloader track40 and with the bucket tilted/dumped 45 degrees downward). To accomplish such enhanced height and reach capabilities, theloader arms16 includes a unique travel path, as defined by the path traveled by theloader arm16hitch pin68 when viewing theloader10 from a side elevation view. The travel path may approximate the function ƒ(x)=4.641e^0.34x. Such a travel path of theloader arms16 also provides for enhanced breakout strength of theloader arms16 and associatedattachments18.

Although the invention has been described with reference to the one or more embodiments illustrated in the figures, it is understood that equivalents may be employed and substitutions made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as recited in the claims.

Having thus described one or more embodiments of the invention, what is claimed as new and desired to be protected by Letters Patent includes the following:

Claims (16)

What is claimed is:

1. A compact utility loader comprising:

a frame including a lower portion and an upper portion, wherein a width of said lower portion is smaller than a width of said upper portion;

a first track and a second track, each being positioned on either side of said frame,

wherein each of said tracks has a width of at least 7.5 inches,

wherein said compact utility loader has an overall width of no more than 36 inches,

a pair of rotatable sprockets extending from each side of said frame, wherein said sprockets are configured to actuate said tracks,

wherein said frame presents an interior compartment, and wherein said compact utility loader additionally comprises a pair of hydraulic motors, with each hydraulic motor configured to rotate one of said sprockets, and

an engine positioned within the interior compartment presented by said frame, wherein said engine is positioned rearward of said motors,

wherein said engine is a diesel engine and includes one or more turbos, wherein said engine is rated at less than 30 horsepower, and wherein said engine is configured to propel said compact utility loader to a ground speed of at least 4.8 miles per hour.

2. The compact utility loader ofclaim 1, wherein a cross section of said frame has a T-shape.

3. The compact utility loader ofclaim 1, wherein a ratio of the width of said lower portion of said frame to the width of said upper portion of said frame is between 3:5 and 4:5.

4. The compact utility loader ofclaim 1, further comprising a pair of track frames extending from either side of said lower portion of said frame, wherein said track frames are welded to said lower portion of said frame, and wherein said tracks are supported on said track frames.

5. The compact utility loader ofclaim 4, wherein said tracks extend at least partially underneath said upper portion of said frame.

6. The compact utility loader ofclaim 1, wherein said compact utility loader weighs between 3000 and 3400 pounds, and wherein said tracks are configured to exert a pressure of no more than 4.2 psi onto the ground.

7. The compact utility loader ofclaim 1, wherein said sprockets each have a conical shape, with a diameter of each sprocket becoming larger as the sprocket extends from outboard to inboard.

8. The compact utility loader ofclaim 7, wherein said sprockets engage with their respective tracks at an inboard-most portion of said sprockets.

9. The compact utility loader ofclaim 1, further comprising at least one stop element configured to extend from said frame into selective engagement with one of said sprockets to inhibit rotation of said sprocket.

10. The compact utility loader ofclaim 9, wherein said stop element functions as a brake to prevents actuation of said tracks and movement of said compact utility loader.

11. The compact utility loader ofclaim 1, wherein said compact utility loader additionally comprises a hydraulic pump positioned within said interior compartment.

12. The compact utility loader ofclaim 1, wherein a center of gravity of said compact utility loader is positioned rearward of a midpoint of a length of said compact utility loader.

13. The compact utility loader ofclaim 12, wherein a first distance is present between a front of said compact utility loader and the center of gravity and a second distance is present between a rear of the compact utility loader and the center of gravity, wherein a ratio of the first distance with respect to the second distance is between 60:40 to 70:30.

14. The compact utility loader ofclaim 1, further comprising a hood rotatably coupled with said frame and configured to selectively provide access to the interior compartment.

15. The compact utility loader ofclaim 14, wherein said hood is formed from plastic and is configured to attenuate noise generated by said compact utility loader.

16. The compact utility loader ofclaim 15, wherein the noise generated by said compact utility loader is further attenuated by said frame of said compact utility loader being formed with a T-shape.

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